Liverpool could face a battle to keep hold of exciting young winger Raheem Sterling after it was revealed that Tottenham Hotspur were interested in signing the England youth international.

Sterling was in action for Liverpool last night as he came on as a substitute for Joe Cole in the 1-0 win over FC Gomel in the first leg of their Europa League qualifying match in Belarus.

A goal from Stewart Downing was enough to secure the first victory for Brendan Rodgers as manager of Liverpool, but he will be concerned to hear that Tottenham are hoping to tempt Sterling away from Anfield.

Raheem Sterling
Raheem Sterling in action for Liverpool in the Europa League [Reuters]

The Sun believes that Sterling is unsettled on Merseyside and would be interested in a return to his hometown of London where he came through the youth academy at Queens Park Rangers.

There is a belief that Tottenham manager Andre Villas-Boas is keen to secure the services of the 17-year-old and would be prepared to make a substantial offer of around £7million for the teenager.

Liverpool would certainly want to keep hold of Sterling who cost just £600,000 when he made the move from QPR as Rodgers is believed to be a fan of the exciting young winger.

He has already represented England at Under-17 level and last season was one of the standout performers for Liverpool's NextGen side which made it through to the semi-finals of the competition.

Previous manager Kenny Dalglish handed Sterling his league debut last season when he came on against Wigan Athletic to become the second youngest player ever to play for Liverpool.

With Rodgers looking to play the same style of football that was so successful at Swansea City, there was a belief that Sterling could look to perform the same role that Scott Sinclair did so successfully lasts season working under the Northern Irishman.

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