Manchester United have sent out feelers to try and snatch Raheem Sterling from Liverpool's hands.
Sterling has had a stellar season so far, which has seen him become a Liverpool regular as well as get a cap for England.
However, efforts from Liverpool to tie the winger down to a new contract have not gone too well, with Sterling's representatives rejecting the Reds' offer that is currently on the table.
Sterling is on a developmental contract, and wants to sign his first major deal, but is holding out for more improved terms than the one on offer.
Negotiations are ongoing between the club's board and Sterling's representatives, but no progress has been shown off late, although Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has repeatedly said he is confident his player will sign a new contract.
Sir Alex Ferguson is on the lookout for a replacement for Nani, who is expected to leave either in January or in the summer, and sees Sterling as a perfect option. According to goal.com, United have made informal inquiries into the availability of the 18-year-old, to make it clear that they are interested if he comes in the market.
Along with United, the likes of Arsenal and Manchester City have been linked with a move. The record English league champions, however, might make a bid for Sterling if the standoff continues when the transfer window opens in January.
Any United move for Sterling would be difficult, however, considering the rivalry between the two teams. If Liverpool are forced to sell, which is unlikely with Sterling still expected to agree on a new deal, they will try to avoid selling their player to their biggest rivals.
Earlier, Rodgers had reiterated the club's stance of keeping Sterling at Anfield, while remaining confident the midfielder would sign on the dotted line sooner rather than later.
"The club and his representatives are in good dialogue and good communication, and hopefully we'll get that resolved very soon," he said.
