Report: Liverpool launch Asier Illarramendi bid

Liverpool have reportedly submitted an offer to Real Madrid for the services of midfielder Asier Illarramendi.

The 26-year-old joined the La Liga giants from Real Sociedad two seasons ago, but he has failed to nail down a regular starting spot.

Illarramendi played 30 times in the league for Madrid last season, but 20 of those appearances came from the bench.

He has been linked with a move away from the club in recent months, and according to Marca, Liverpool have made a bid of £15.7m to try to bring him to Anfield.

Despite being the most expensive Spanish player Madrid have ever signed, Illarramendi has not made a senior appearance for his country's national side.