Liverpool have been heavily linked with a move for James Milner this summer…
Manchester City are prepared to allow James Milner – a rumoured transfer target for Liverpool – to leave the club on a free transfer this summer, freeing up space in their squad for Everton starlet Ross Barkley.
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Reports in the Daily Mirror claim that Milner has set his heart on a move to Anfield, where he will provide the Reds with a short-term replacement for departing captain Steven Gerrard in central midfield.
In turn, City will then step-up their pursuit of another England international in Barkley, with an opening offer believed to be worth around £35m.
This news comes in stark contrast to previous reports, which suggested that City boss Manuel Pellegrini was doing everything in his power to convince Milner – a key player for his side this season – to extend his stay at the Etihad.
Having recently lost Gareth Barry, Micah Richards and Scott Sinclair, City are desperate not to lose another of their British stars, as they struggle to meet the required quotas of home-grown players.
Milner, capped 53 times by England, joined City from Aston Villa for £26m in 2010. He’s since made 188 appearances in all competitions, scoring 14 goals and winning two Premier League titles.