Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has stated that Arsenal are not “anywhere near” matching their valuation of the striker, after Arsenal made a second, club record bid of £40m. However despite having the bid rejected, Suarez wishes to talk to Arsenal over a potential move.
Arsenal’s bid triggered a clause in Suarez’s contract which meant that he is informed of the bid and can talk to Arsenal, however Liverpool are not prepared to sell Suarez for £40m. Brendan Rodgers told the Liverpool Echo “There was an offer a few weeks ago of £35m and two weeks later it is now £40m and £1. I don’t think it is anywhere near the value of what he is worth.”
However Suarez did feature in Liverpool’s pre-season friendly against Melbourne Victory by coming on as a substitute after 72 minutes in their 2-0 win. Suarez set up Liverpool’s second goal which was scored by recent signing Iago Aspas. After the game, Rodgers was quick to remind Suarez the debt that he owes Liverpool after sticking by him during his time at Anfield.
“The support he has received from the supporters and the people of the city of Liverpool has been unrivalled,” stated Rodgers.
“In this period of time he’s missed a lot of games for the club through various reasons. The people have stood by him like a son and really looked after him. Whatever happens in the coming weeks that will be in his mind because it’s something you can never forget.”
Suarez would still miss the first six games of the new season, whether he stays at Liverpool or signs for Arsenal. If Arsenal complete the signing, it would be their club record for a transfer fee paid.