Former England boss Peter Taylor has said that he thinks Liverpool's capture of Roberto Firmino will signal the end of Raheem Sterling's Anfield career.
The Reds landed Firmino for a fee of around £29m on Wednesday, and while the club have rejected two bids for Sterling from Manchester City already this summer, it is reported that a £50m offer will see the Anfield hierarchy accept.
Ex-Three Lions coach Taylor claims that Firmino's signing may see Sterling moved on to the Citizens later this summer.
Taylor told Sky Sports News: "Will they keep Sterling? It doesn't look good for them. If I was a Liverpool fan I wouldn't fancy my chances of keeping him. I can see the transfer going ahead now to wherever that is.
"If the boy wants to go then it's a good move for all concerned. If he stays I'd be worried if I was Brendan Rodgers about whether or not [Sterling] wants to be there. For me, you need to fill your dressing room with players who want to be there.
"The Firmino deal is good for the manager, and all of a sudden [Liverpool] are getting the players in early and they're there for pre-season, I think that's good business for Liverpool and if you're sure about your targets then go and get your players."
Meanwhile, Reds legend Dietmar Hamann has hailed the signing of the Brazilian international as a "real statement of intent".
Paul Gorst
