Brendan Rodgers admits he only sees Andy Carroll as his third choice striker – and claims he’ll have to look elsewhere to secure first-team football.
The England international has been linked with a move back to Newcastle, and is also wanted by West Ham, but has so far interest has not materialised into a deal.
The Reds signed Carroll in January 2011 for a club record £35m fee and are looking to recoup a large percentage of that outlay in any potential transfer.
And Rodgers claims the 23-year-old will have limited opportunities this season, if he stays at Anfield.
“You don’t need to be a rocket scientist to see Andy’s been a cover player but he’s been excellent in his attitude and acceptance of where he is at,” Rodgers said.
“But, as a club, I’m not sure we are in a position to have £35m players as third-choice strikers, or a winger on £5-6m a year.
“There’s still a wee bit of thinking time, and it’s hard to walk away from here. The ones who want to play will probably look elsewhere, irrespective of finance, because that’s their passion.”