Liverpool decline Juventus Meireles offer

Liverpool have reportedly turned down an approach for Raul Meireles from Juventus.

The Italian side are said to have offered cash plus midfielder Felipe Melo in part-exchange for Portuguese international Meireles.

Liverpool have apparently responded by declining the offer but indicating that they would be interested in a straight cash deal of £13.5m-£15m. He arrived from Porto last summer for £10.7m.

While Meireles enjoyed a successful debut Premier League campaign, scoring five goals in 33 appearances, Liverpool are said to be open to losing him due to a hefty midfield roster, including newly-acquired Jordan Henderson.

Meanwhile, Melo has expressed his frustration with his part in proceedings. “Let us say that Juve are not respecting me, or at least that’s the impression I get,” The Mirror quotes him as saying.

“I’m not just anyone. I’m not a bargaining chip to be used to reach anybody.”