Mircea Lucescu has warned Henrikh Mkhitaryan that he is making a big mistake by joining Liverpool, who according to the manager is not a bigger team than Shakhtar Donetsk.

Reports in Russia suggest Mkhitaryan is finally closing in a £25 million ($38 million) move to Liverpool, with the Reds looking to sort out the attacking midfielder's ownership issues.

Tottenham, Borussia Dortmund and Anzhi Makhachkala have also reportedly showed an interest in the Armenian international, but it is believed Mkhitaryan prefers a move to Liverpool.

However, Lucescu is convinced a switch to Liverpool or even Tottenham would be a step down for the player, who is pretty much guaranteed an opportunity to play in the Champions League every season with Shakhtar.

"It is his decision, his desire, but there is still time for him to change his mind, because I think he is making a big mistake," Lucescu said.

"I can understand the urge to leave if he has a chance to go to a club that surpasses Shakhtar, like Barcelona or Real Madrid, but not many clubs are beyond our level -- not clubs like Liverpool or Tottenham.

"We are a strong club with 50,000 passionate supporters every week, and every year we are fighting for the league, the cups and the Champions League.

"The whole team is helping him become the player he is too, because everyone gives him the chance to show up in the penalty area and score the goals that make him wanted.

"This place is good for him, and he is making a mistake if he thinks there are many teams above this level."

Liverpool have already completed four signings, with Iago Aspas, Luis Alberto, Kolo Toure and Simon Mignolet sealing switches to Anfield.

Brendan Rodgers is in the transfer market for another central defender as well, apart from Mkhitaryan, and if the manager can complete the signings of all his preferred targets before the start of the new season, then it will certainly put Liverpool in a strong position as they look to compete for a top-four place in the Premier League.