Liverpool transfer news: Reds target Jay Rodriguez offered new contract by Southampton

Striker offered a new five-year deal, according to reports

Southampton's Jay Rodriguez scores against Norwich City during the Premier League match at St Marys, Southampton (PA)

Southampton have offered Liverpool target Jay Rodriguez a new five-year contract, according to reports.

With Brendan Rodgers interested in making Rodriguez his third purchase from the Saints this summer, Sky Sports report St Mary's bosses have handed the 24-year-old a new contract.

Rodriguez enjoyed a brilliant season for Southampton last year and was in World Cup contention before he cruelly suffered a knee injury against Manchester City that ended his season.

He was the second top English scorer in the Premier League season, behind only Wayne Rooney, with 15 goals.

Rodriguez joined from Burnley in a £6m deal in 2012.

Liverpool have already moved for former Southampton duo Rickie Lambert and Adam Lallana this summer and are being linked with a move for centre-back Dejan Lovren, who is said to want a move away from St Mary's.

Rodgers is chasing a striker after the £75m sale of Luis Suarez, with Loic Remy and Wilfried Bony also reported to be options to arrive at Anfield.

Liverpool are set to complete the signing of Benfica winger Lazar Markovic today, their fourth signing of the summer joining Lambert, Lallana and Emre Can from Bayer Leverkuse.