Rafael Benitez has earmarked Liverpool starlet Raheem Sterling as his first signing if he is appointed as Real Madrid coach.
Sterling, 20, has reportedly told the Reds' hierarchy that he wants to leave this summer, having previously turned down a £100-a-week contract extension.
Carlo Ancelotti was sacked by the Blancos earlier this week and former Liverpool boss Benitez is expected to take the reins in the coming days.
The Spaniard is wasting no time in putting his stamp on the team by making Sterling his number one transfer target, according to The Mirror.
Manchester City, Arsenal and Bayern Munich are among those said to be monitoring his situation on Merseyside.
Sterling's existing deal expires in 2017.
Written by
Shane Callaghan
Shane Callaghan
