Rodgers’ push for Patrick Roberts shows forward thinking

Liverpool, 10/1 to lift the Premier League trophy, are said to have set their sights on three forwards, as Reds boss Brendan Rodgers looks to build for the future as well as bolster his squad in the present.

It appears adding exciting attacking starlets Lazar Markovic and Divock Origi has not sated the Anfield outfit’s appetite for introducing youth, with a move now mooted for Fulham wonderkid Patrick Roberts.

Rodgers, 17, with an eye firmly on Liverpool’s production line, seems keen to splash out in this summer market to ensure the club can compete, but also appears to be planning a more prudent approach for upcoming transfer windows.

Having delved deep into the Reds’ coffers to utilise the funds acquired through Luis Suarez’s sale to Barcelona, signing experienced players such as Adam Lallana and Rickie Lambert, Rodgers has also smartly secured his Liverpool legacy.

Already credited as the catalyst for academy star Raheem Sterling’s rapid rise to first-team status, the Northern Irishman has always had a clear emphasis on home grown produce, keen to incorporate the benefits of youth into his squad.

The team have certainly responded to his philosophy, illustrating boldness, bravery, speed and panache, and Rodgers can now look to curb spending by bolstering the Anfield ranks with further potential.

Unable to rival rich kids Chelsea and Manchester City financially, this long-term strategy has already born-fruit, but can prove even more valuable in the seasons to come.

Barcelona, Bayern Munich and Manchester United have been some of the most successful sides in recent times, with their history-making teams all formed around a core of club-reared talent. Liverpool are now also clearly attempting to adopt this approach.

If the Reds can snap up top English talent Roberts, his potential could mean they save themselves a huge outlay if he hits the heights that are expected. Current British talents such as Ross Barkley are already quoted at astronomical fees, and the Fulham youngster could prove he is in the same talent, and price, bracket.