Lucas Leiva could leave Liverpool after being left out against Stoke

Liverpool value Lucas, who was made aware that he would effectively become their fifth-choice central midfielder, at around £8m and clubs have until September 1 to bid.

Another concern centres on Liverpool’s strength in depth in midfield with Lucas left out of the squad entirely following a fall-out which presumably now promotes the prospect of a parting’.

The 28-year-old wasn’t included in the match-day squad as the Reds defeated Stoke City 1-0 on Sunday.

He was left out of the matchday squad for the opening game of the season against Stoke City and although he did feature in a behind doors friendly on Monday, the Echo report that the club are ready to sell.

Maddock says this led to a “frank exchange” with Rodgers.

As well as Can and Henderson, Liverpool also have James Milner and Joe Allen in their midfield with a number of promising youngsters in the reserves including highly-rated Jordan Rossiter.

Interestingly, Real Madrid playmaker Asier Illarramendi and Sporting CP midfielder William Carvalho are listed as possible replacements. Having been marginalised before by Rodgers only to regain a first-team place, and been linked with a move in previous transfer windows, Lucas’s future at the club is again in doubt.

New signings Adam Bogdan and Divock Origi also started while Alberto Moreno, Kolo Toure and Emre Can completed the line-up.

“Lovren responded to that show of faith with his most accomplished performance since joining Liverpool”.

“Liverpool must decide whether to retain Moreno – who will attract interest from La Liga – or cash in and look for another left back”.