Former Liverpool player John Barnes believes that a new contract will not necessarily keep Luis Suarez at Anfield.

Reports have emerged claiming that the club have opened talks with the prolific player's representatives over a new deal.

The Uruguay international was denied a move away from Merseyside in the summer, but due to his current scintillating form, a number of clubs are expected to express an interest in the future.

"Regardless of whether he gets a new contract for another five years or has another two-and-a-half years to go at the end of the season, I don't think the very fact he has signed a new contact will make him stay," Barnes told talkSPORT.

"He has to want to stay. I want him to stay at Liverpool because he is a fantastic player and he will help Liverpool, but only if he wants to be here."

Suarez has scored 17 goals in the Premier League so far this season.