Carroll's future remains uncertain

15 July 2012 22:46

Andy Carroll's future at Liverpool seems increasingly uncertain despite the Reds rejecting a bid by former club Newcastle to take back the striker on loan.

The Magpies confirmed on Sunday that they had made an offer for the England international to go back to the north east, initially for a temporary spell.

While that was flatly turned down, Press Association Sport understands the Merseysiders would entertain offers for a permanent transfer of their £35million British record signing.

New Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers admitted this week that he would consider sending Carroll out on loan this season.

While Liverpool were not commenting on the matter it is now understood the club would only sell Carroll, rather than entertaining thoughts of a loan move.

The 23-year-old arrived at Liverpool for a club-record fee from Newcastle 18 months ago but failed to live up to his price tag under Kenny Dalglish.

The arrival of Rodgers has seemingly pushed him closer towards the Anfield exit door with his former club now making a sensational attempt to bring him back to St James' Park. But it is understood Newcastle's deal fell short of anything they might consider.

The Magpies have no immediate need to strengthen their hand in the striking department, although they spent the early part of the summer wooing FC Twente's Luuk de Jong, although found the asking price too rich.

However, the spectre of the release-clause in Demba Ba's contract makes him vulnerable, at least until the end of this month, although Pardew insisted last week that there had been no contact with any club over any of his key men.

But Ba and Papiss Cisse could be required by Senegal for the African Nations Cup, while Leon Best and Peter Lovenkrands have left the club, so reinforcements will be required at some point.

Source: PA