Barcelona Set to Negotiate with Liverpool for Luis Suarez as Rodgers Eyes Alexis Sanchez

Barcelona are reportedly set to swoop for Liverpool star Luis Suarez after the Merseyside club have agreed to open negotiations over a proposed transfer.

The Liverpool Echo reports that the Reds' managing director Ian Ayre has agreed to meet the delegation from the Catalan giants in London as they finally make an approach to sign the beleaguered Uruguayan international.

The 27-year-old stole the headlines once again for all the wrong reasons after biting Italy's Giorgio Chiellini during the World Cup. He was issued a four-month ban from all football-related activity by Fifa and a nine-match ban from representing his nation.

Suarez issued a statement on Tuesday regretting his actions and insisting that he would not repeat such incidents in future. However, reports surfacing in the aftermath of his statement claimed that his advisers were instructed by Barcelona to get Saurez to issue a public apology if he was keen on moving to Camp Nou.

The La Liga outfit's officials believed that the ban will reduce Liverpool's asking price for their star striker, who scored 31 goals in the Premier League last season. But the Echo's report states that Ayre will stand firm on his demands and will not part ways with his prized asset for cheap.

Suarez signed a new lucrative contract in December making him the highest paid Liverpool player. It also comprised of a clause that puts a price-tag believed to be between £70m - £80m. The Reds' owners are adamant that the former Ajax and Nacional star will be sold only if the valuation mentioned in his release clause is met.

The report also suggests that Ayre will utilise this chance to bolster Liverpool's chances of signing Alexis Sanchez. Brendan Rodgers has already stressed that the transfer committee is working hard to bring in quality additions and is said to be a huge admirer of the 25-year-old forward, valued at £30m.

Barcelona have already revealed that they have received bids for the Chilean international, who is also reportedly a target for Arsenal, Manchester United and Juventus.

The former River Plate and Udinese star could easily act as a makeweight for Luis Enrique's side, as they look to secure Suarez's services at a lower price.

Meanwhile, Barcelona's sporting director Andoni Zubizarreta has further fuelled speculations surrounding Suarez's purported switch from Anfield by claiming that the Uruguayan was humble while showering praise on his talents.