Phil Thompson advises Liverpool to forget about signing Saido Berahino

Ex-Liverpool captain Phil Thompson has urged the club not to sign West Bromwich Albion striker Saido Berahino, and instead invest in a big name.

The Reds have struggled in front of goal this season and have found the net just 28 times in 20 Premier League matches, which has led to speculation linking the club with a move for Berahino.

However, Thompson believes that boss Brendan Rodgers should be aiming higher.

"I would not like to think that Saido Berahino is their prime target as a striker. Yes, Liverpool do need a striker with injuries to Daniel Sturridge and the difficulties that Ricky Lambert and Mario Balotelli have had at the football club," Thompson told Sky Sports News.

He added: "I think that Liverpool need someone who is a bit more established and who has played at a higher level like Gonzalo Higuain or Ezequiel Levezzi, somebody of that ilk to come in following the news about Steven Gerrard's departure.

"For me, I would not go for Berahino, although I can see the advantages of having him, but I tell you what, he has to change his attitude."

Liverpool next visit Sunderland on Saturday.