Liverpool Transfer Rumour: Reds Consider Loaning Flop Striker Out

Liverpool will consider sending striker Andy Carroll out on loan, during the summer window, as they look to freshen the squad ahead of next season, according to the Metro.

The report says Reds boss Kenny Dalglish wants to sign up to five players when the transfer window opens. The club has managed just 40 goals in the league so far this term and will hence target to improve their strike force.

Liverpool will try to sign a new striker and have shortlisted Athletic Bilbao's Fernando Llorente, Valencia's Roberto Soldado and FC Groningen's David Texeira as potential options to partner Luis Suarez in attack.

Big-money signing Carroll, who was nearly offered out on loan in January, has scored two winners in his last three games, including one against rivals Everton in the FA Cup semi-final. However, it is understood the effort might not be enough to keep the 23 year old at Anfield next season, after a disappointing season with just 8 goals in 43 appearances.

Feyenoord and Hamburg target Dirk Kuyt will also be allowed to leave the club, along with young striker Daniel Pacheco, who is currently out on loan in Spain.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have reportedly sent top scout Steve Hitchen to run the rule over AZ Alkmaar midfielder Rasmus Elm, according to the Daily Mail.

The 24 year old, who has scored 12 goals for the Dutch club so far this season, has been linked with a host of big clubs after some impressive performances in Holland. Manchester United, AC Milan and Bayern Munich are all reportedly interested in the Swedish international, who is believed to be valued at around £7 million by Alkmaar. It now appears that Liverpool have also joined the battle for his signature.

Elm joined AZ from Swedish club Kalmar FF in 2009 and has gone on to make more than 100 appearances for the Eredivisie team.

Liverpool, who are in eighth place in the Premier League, travel to Norwich City on Saturday. The Reds will compete in the FA Cup final against Chelsea at Wembley next month.