Real Madrid not interested in Liverpool star Raheem Sterling despite Rafael Benitez praise

Rafael Benitez is not interested in bringing Liverpool star Raheem Sterling to the Santiago Bernabeu even though the Spaniard revealed his admiration for the England international during his presentation as the new Real Madrid manager, reports in Spain claim.

Sterling's future at Anfield has been under increasing scrutiny since the player gave an unauthorised interview to the BBC in April, revealing he had rejected a new deal – worth around £100,000 a week – as he was not interested in money but to win trophies.

Later on May, his agent confirmed the 20-year-old will "definitely" not sign a new contract at Anfield, suggesting he wants to make a change in his career.

Manchester United, Arsenal and Manchester City had been linked with a move to secure his services in recent months but the name of Real Madrid emerged with force following the expected appointment of former Chelsea and Liverpool manager Benitez – which was confirmed on Wednesday 3 June.

During his last season at Anfield, the Spanish boss signed a then 15-year-old Sterling from Queens Park Rangers in February 2010 as a prospect for the future and recent reports claimed he was keen on reuniting with him at his new club.

Benitez did not play down the speculation during his presentation at the La Liga giants on 3 June, with him revealing his admiration for the England international.

He said: "We admire Raheem, that's no secret. But he is not one of our players so I can't really comment on him."

But Spanish football expert Guillem Balague claims in AS that Liverpool's supporters can relax as Benitez has no intentions in making an attempt to purchase the Anfield star.

He points out that even though Benitez does not doubt Sterling's talent and his great potential, he will not take a gamble on him due to his questionable antics off the pitch.

The Spanish publication adds even though some reports have claimed Real Madrid had already made a bid to secure Sterling's services, that offer "does not exit and will not exist".