/cdn.vox-cdn.com/uploads/chorus_image/image/40975936/455787426.0.jpg)
Now that the new contract for Daniel Sturridge is done and dusted, the top priority for Liverpool has to be getting Raheem Sterling re-signed to a new long-term deal. With clubs like Real Madrid sniffing around, getting that extra bit of security in hand will be vital.
Fortunately, according to Tony Barrett, Liverpool have made the first steps towards doing exactly that:
Liverpool made an approach to Raheem Sterling's representatives in the last fortnight & talks on a new deal are set to begin soon.
— Tony Barrett (@TonyBarretTimes) October 5, 2014
This is very good news indeed for Liverpool fans, who desperately want to see the club hold on to a player who's arguably the club's best young star since Steven Gerrard emerged from the academy. Sterling has been a vital part of the club since he made his breakthrough two years ago, and last season he became one of the best wingers in the league.
Now, with Liverpool in the Champions League and with some of the giants of world football showing an interest in bringing Sterling in, getting him signed to a new deal will be a big statement that Liverpool is serious about being here to stay. It will also serve as a good enticement to the club's academy players: play well for us, and we'll move heaven and earth to reward you and keep you here.
Now let's just hope that Sterling isn't run further in to the ground while on England duty and can get some rest soon. Liverpool would look a lot better with him in form again.