Raheem Sterling future: Real Madrid will try to 'convince Liverpool' to sell to them over Manchester City

Rafa Benitez can use his links with the club

Rafa Benitez at his unveiling; Liverpool forward Raheem Sterling (GETTY IMAGES)

Real Madrid will attempt to convince Liverpool that they are better off selling Raheem Sterling to them over a Premier League rival, according to reports.

New Bernabeu manager Rafael Benitez admitted during his unveiling as Carlo Ancelotti's successor that he is familiar with Sterling although refused to speak any further about a possible bid in public.

It's claimed that the former Liverpool manager will use his Anfield ties to communicate with the club that Real Madrid would be the best suitor to sell Sterling to.

Manchester City are understood to be leading the race but allowing the 20-year-old a switch to the Etihad could have a direct impact on Liverpool's ambitions.

Benitez may also be able to convince the want-away Sterling that the Bernabeu would be the best move considering it was him that signed him as a 15-year-old for Liverpool.