Liverpool to use funds from Raheem Sterling sale in signing Barcelona star Pedro

Liverpool are pushing for a move in signing Barcelona forward Pedro this summer, according to the Catalan newspaper Sport.

Luis Enrqiue fielded Luis Suarez, Neymar and Lionel Messi as the three players to lead the Champions League winners' attacking lineup. This had seen the 27-year-old start in only 15 league games in 2014/15 season.

The Spain international is frustrated with the lack of first team opportunities. He is considering his future at Camp Nou, despite signing a new long-term deal, which will keep him at Barcelona until 2019.

The Reds allowed Raheem Sterling to complete a move to Manchester City in a deal worth £49m ($76.4m), according to the BBC. Brendan Rodgers admitted his side will not be looking to sign a "direct replacement" for the winger.

However, the report claims the Merseyside club are considering a move in bringing Pedro to Anfield in the ongoing transfer window. A move to Liverpool will see him miss out on Champions League football, at least for the next season.

The Guardian suggests Pedro's release clause was €150m (£106.4m, $165.2m). However, his buyout clause has now been lowered to €30m (£20.9m, $32.7m). They also claim Liverpool's league rivals Chelsea are also in the hunt for the Spanish forward's services.

The Premier League champions are unwilling to meet Pedro's asking price and are looking to negotiate with Barcelona to lower the asking price. On the other hand, Liverpool are hoping to use the funds from Sterling's sale in bringing the attacker to Anfield.

Pedro's decision on his future will only be taken after Barcelona's presidential elections, Mundo Deportivo reports. The Catalan club will elect their new president on 18 July and the forward has to decide if he wants to stay or leave his current employers.

Despite the ongoing speculation, he will travel with the squad to the United States for their pre-season tour.