Liverpool Transfer Rumours: Reds Midfielder High on Stamford Bridge Wish List

With Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish desperate to clear wages before the start of the new season, it seems inevitable that some big-name players will be shown the exit door at Anfield.

According to an August 16 report by The Guardian, Liverpool's star midfielder Raul Meireles is set to join rivals Chelsea.

The 28-year-old joined Liverpool as a late 2010 summer signing, and impressed last year. His performance brought him the PFA Fans' Player of the Year award, and he quickly became a fan favourite at Anfield.

He scored five goals in 33 appearances in his debut Premier League season.

This transfer season, however, Liverpool have made some big signings to boost the midfield, including the acquisition of similar style player Charlie Adam. Couple that with the fact that Alberto Aquilani is back from loan and the emergence of Lucas and you find Raul Meireles having fallen out of favour somewhat. Reports suggest that if any midfielders will leave Anfield this summer, it will be the heavily tattooed Portuguese international.

He was not in the starting XI for Liverpool's season opener against Sunderland.

With Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas' history at Porto, as well as the injury to important Chelsea midfielder Michael Essien, the move seems a definite possibility. Liverpool could want anywhere between £10 million and £15 million for Meireles.

Follow Jacob Ware on Twitter at @jacobware95