Liverpool 'still want Real Madrid's Asier Illarramendi, prepare £15m bid'

Liverpool have reportedly upped their pursuit of Real Madrid's Asier Illarramendi after Rafael Benitez told the midfielder to search for a new club.

The 25-year-old, who has been linked to the Reds on occasion this summer, was not included in Benitez's squad for Madrid's goalless draw against Sporting Gijon on the opening weekend of the season on Sunday.

According to Marca, new arrival Mateo Kovacic is ahead of Illarramendi in Benitez's thoughts, which has prompted Liverpool to prepare a £15m bid.

Illarramendi signed for the Spanish giants from Real Sociedad for £23m in 2013.