Liverpool Transfer News: 'Top-Class Midfielder' and Memphis Depay Wanted by Reds

Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers will hunt a "top class midfielder" in the summer, according to David Maddock of the Mirror.

Maddock reports the Reds have also made "preliminary contact" with PSV Eindhoven over the potential signing of Memphis Depay, who has fast become one of Europe's most wanted players. However, a high-level midfielder is wanted in addition to Depay's signature.

Sami Mokbel and Dominic King of the Daily Mail believe up to 10 players could be set to exit Anfield in the summer. With Steven Gerrard's switch to Los Angeles Galaxy already confirmed, it is obvious Rodgers needs to find a world-class solution to the chasm left in midfield.

Tim Ireland/Associated Press

Previous reports have suggested Lucas Leiva's time on Merseyside may be coming to a close, so an injection of quality is needed.

Maddock suggests an established midfielder is a priority, but only names Sporting Lisbon's William Carvalho as a potential target. The Portuguese destroyer has lost some momentum this season, but possesses all the right attributes needed to anchor Rodgers' midfield. He is powerful, positionally aware and calm in possession, traits that could aid Jordan Henderson's ability to roam.

B/R UK's Ryan Bailey and Andy Brassell recently discussed whether Carvalho could end up in England:

Liverpool fans only need to think back to the old trio of Gerrard, Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano to realise how the overall quality has dropped in recent years. Strengthening in this position is an absolute must, as Manchester United, Arsenal and Aston Villa have shown how Liverpool struggle to cope with pressing football through the centre in recent weeks.

Rodgers will also be looking to add a dynamic forward to his lineup, perhaps in the shape of Depay, according to Maddock. United have made contact, tweeted by James Ducker of The Times:

Sky Sports provided a lowdown of the Dutchman, who can play on the flank or as a central striker:

Football writer Elko Born suggested Depay's relationship with United boss Louis van Gaal—who handed the youngster his international debut—could prove vital:

Depay's tremendous pace, dribbling skill and finishing ability can be seen below:

Dutch football expert Marcel van der Kraan recently told talkSPORT how Depay is an "eccentric" character who "doesn't talk to the media," per Audioboom:

Rodgers needs to focus on securing a handful of established winners rather than an influx of youngsters like last season.

Depay fits the bill after steering PSV toward the Dutch title, but this looming transfer saga looks like it will run and run. Carvalho would be a quality, if perhaps slightly underwhelming capture at this point. He certainly doesn't enjoy the same explosive qualities as Gerrard did in his prime.

This is perhaps the problem for Rodgers, who will very likely never find a player like Gerrard. He couldn't replace Luis Suarez, and he faces an even bigger task when trying to find a long-term solution to the outgoing club legend.