By PHIL THOMAS
MARTIN SKRTEL is set to boost Liverpool by signing a new four-year contract this week.
The Slovakian stopper, the Reds’ player of the season last term, attracted Manchester City and Fiorentina over the summer.
But now Skrtel will shatter the hopes of all those hoping to tempt him from Mersyside by agreeing a deal to stay put.
City have since switched their sights to Skrtel’s centre-back partner Daniel Agger.
However, Liverpool’s demands for a £20million-plus deal are a major stumbling block.
Kop boss Brendan Rodgers wants to keep the Danish defender at Anfield.
But Agger insists there have so far been no talks over a new deal.
His current contract is entering its final two years and last night he threw the ball firmly into Liverpool’s court.
He said: “I’d rather stay. I can’t imagine playing for anyone else in England.
“But you never know if the club think it’s better to sell me.
“We have this period transfer window every year but I’m taking things easy and with a smile.
“I’ve not heard anything from the club so far, so there’s no reason to be worried.
“I know there has been interest from City, but I am fine with my situation.
“The club will have to decide what they want to do. I’ve heard nothing from them.
“I’d rather stay but that decision is not up to me at the moment.
“Liverpool can do a deal even though I have two years on my contract. But I haven’t changed my mind on the subject.
“Sometimes you can end up in a position where it’s not your decision.
“I don’t want to be somewhere I am not wanted but I would prefer if they want me to stay. That is my first priority.”
