Liverpool close to Asier Illarramendi deal?

Liverpool have reportedly moved a step closer to completing a deal for Asier Illarramendi after making a £14.2m bid.

The Spaniard has been linked with a move away from Real Madrid after struggling to secure regular first-team action, playing the full 90 minutes just seven times in La Liga last season.

The Express claims that Brendan Rodgers's side improved their offer to £14.2m, which is close to the Spanish side's valuation of the midfielder, adding that a deal could be completed by the end of the week.

Illarremendi joined Real Madrid from Real Sociedad in 2013.