Liverpool Transfer News: Latest on Asier Illarramendi and Memphis Depay Rumours

Liverpool "have made an offer" to sign Real Madrid's Asier Illarramendi, according to Marca (h/t Jamie Sanderson of the Metro).

"The details are not clear but reports have previously suggested Madrid want £23 million for the midfielder, who is keen on a move to the Premier League," wrote Sanderson.

Former Real Sociedad midfielder Illarramendi has failed to hold down a consistent role at the Bernabeu, starting just seven La Liga matches this season, per WhoScored.com. He is a quality central midfielder who possesses composure on the ball, a hard-tackling style and the natural willingness to play selfless football.

Andres Kudacki/Associated Press

With Steven Gerrard set to leave Liverpool at the end of the season, Illarramendi is the type of individual Reds boss Brendan Rodgers should target.

The player's levelheadedness ensures he wouldn't get caught up in the need to fill Gerrard's void, a feat which isn't going to be possible no matter who comes in (much like it wasn't possible this season when Luis Suarez left).

Illarramendi has confidence in his own game and could quickly become a favourite at Anfield, where his combative style would be appreciated. Henderson's desire to roam would be aided by Illarramendi patrolling the halfway line, where he would offer quality distribution and a shield for Liverpool's defence.

Depay 'Held Talks' with Manchester United

Ermindo Armino/Associated Press

Rob Draper of the MailOnline links Liverpool with a move for PSV Eindhoven hotshot Memphis Depay but reports in the Dutch media suggest he has journeyed to England to speak with Manchester United.

An article in Voetbal (via Kevin Palmer of the Sunday World) provides the information: "His agent Kees Ploegsma and his colleague Kees Vos were also present at the interview with the English club. The United delegation was led by manager Louis van Gaal."

Draper believes Paris Saint-Germain have also spoken to Depay. Sport Witness indicates speculation of Depay's roaming is too convenient:

Dutch legend Ronald de Boer believes the Eredivisie's top scorer is better suited to an Old Trafford switch, partly due to the presence of Van Gaal. 

De Boer spoke to talkSPORT: "I don't want to say which club is more suitable for him, but if he goes to United he knows there is a Dutch coach there who knows him from the World Cup. That is an advantage."

B/R UK provided another tidbit from De Boer's chat:

Imagining Liverpool's lineup with Raheem Sterling and Depay either side of a prolific striker is perhaps mouthwatering for many fans. The latter's dribbling skill, goalscoring ability and infectious confidence with the ball has the power to raise the tempo of his team. B/R UK's Sam Tighe recently detailed other potential candidates to aid the Reds' progress:

Liverpool already play at breakneck speed when moving forward, but with Daniel Sturridge consistently struggling with injury, Depay is likely to be an attractive prospect.

A lack of Champions League football may crush the club's chances, however, particularly if United qualify and start to chuck hefty cash around.