Liverpool Transfer News: Steven Gerrard Blow Dealt by Jurgen Klopp, Top Rumours

Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has dismissed any chance of Steven Gerrard rejoining the club on loan this winter, but the Reds are reportedly preparing a move for Real Madrid's out-of-favour winger Jese Rodriguez.

It was suggested L.A. Galaxy midfielder Gerrard could move back to Anfield on a short-term deal during the Major League Soccer offseason. However, Klopp told Sky Sports (h/t ESPN FC) that while Liverpool miss his influence, he won't make a return to the club's squad:

"

The players have to fill the gap. It's a big task. They try but they're young. That's not an excuse, I'm just describing the situation. That's what we're working on.

We spoke about many things but it's not for the public. I'm an optimistic guy, but he has a contract. Definitely not a loan spell now, but we will do it if we can.

"

After a promising start to life on Merseyside, former Borussia Dortmund boss Klopp is in search of some stability following a run of four matches without a win in December.

Gerrard is training with his former club in a bid to keep fit and previously intensified reports he could move back to Anfield after praising the impact of Klopp, per Squawka:

It's become increasingly common for players to sign temporary loan deals with European outfits between MLS seasons. Thierry Henry, Landon Donovan and Gerrard's Galaxy team-mate Robbie Keane are just some of those who have moved to the Premier League from the United States in recent years.

A familiar face like Gerrard's could do Liverpool the world of good at present, and the ex-England international showed he may have the skills to match up after meeting up with the F2 Freestylers during his time back in England:

While sections of the Kop might like to see their former captain back at Liverpool, it's also understandable that Klopp should look to leave his own imprint on the club without the aid of any former faces.

In any case, 35-year-old Gerrard may find he's no longer up to the Premier League standard, and Klopp would rather place his faith in the likes of captain Jordan Henderson and deputy James Milner moving forward.

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One move the Premier League powerhouse could make this winter is for Real's fringe star Jese, who is reportedly a target for the Reds after falling out of favour at the Bernabeu this season.

Spanish magazine Don Balon reported the 22-year-old is open to a switch following a poor start to life under Real manager Rafa Benitez (h/t Squawka). Jese couldn't even make the matchday squad for Sunday's 10-2 win over Rayo Vallecano, and ESPN FC's Dermot Corrigan hinted at just how far he sits down the pecking order:

The former Spain under-21 international has started in just seven of his 13 total appearances this season, and it's proving far more difficult to impress Benitez than his predecessor Carlo Ancelotti.

Jese has seen his minutes drop this term after making 23 appearances last season, even though he was out for half of the 2014-15 campaign with an anterior cruciate ligament injury.

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Liverpool have promoted Jordon Ibe in their first-team ranks following Raheem Sterling's departure for Manchester City over the summer, but Klopp may yet require more options out wide.

Jese's willingness to leave Los Merengues in January could make him a valuable target, and Liverpool would stand to benefit from Real's loss if they can offer the Castilla academy product more playing time.