Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers relaxed despite rumours over Raheem Sterling deal

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has insisted that there are no new developments regarding the future of Raheem Sterling, despite reports over the player's future.

Speculation began circulating on 13 March suggesting that the talented 20-year-old had shelved contract talks until the end of the current season, and Real Madrid and Bayern Munich were among the European heavyweights keeping a close eye on developments.

Rodgers was dismissive of the claims, and seemed to be confident that Sterling is content to continue at Anfield.

"There is nothing new to report on it. I am quite relaxed about Raheem's situation," he said during a press conference ahead of Liverpool's upcoming trip to Rodgers' former club Swansea, according to the Guardian.

"He is not going anywhere in a hurry. He has still got this season and another couple of years to go on his contract. I think it is quite obvious when you look at Raheem's situation anyone with Raheem's best interests would see Liverpool as the best option for his career. He turned 20 in December and he has made 114 appearances, which is a remarkable amount at a club of this size to be given that opportunity.

"He has made it clear himself that he loves being here and I think he was quoted as saying this is the best place for any young player to develop, so that makes me quite relaxed. I am sure the club and his representatives will find the solution for that."

Sterling's current deal, which pays £35,000 per week, does not expire until 2017, and it seems very likely that the England international will seek a sizeable wage increase if he is to extend his stay on Merseyside.

His status within the current Liverpool setup will mean that any delay in negotiations is likely to cause an element of panic among supporters, but such concerns are unlikely to hinder Rodgers as he seeks to secure Champions League qualification for the second successive season.

Liverpool are currently fifth in the Premier League – a position that could change before Monday evening's clash at the Liberty Stadium, with fourth-placed Manchester United set to host Tottenham at Old Trafford on 15 March.