Liverpool winger Raheem Sterling has privately labelled manager Brendan Rodgers as the main reason behind his wishes to leave this summer, according to reports.

The Englishman turned down a contract offer mid-way through last season, before his agent, Aidy Ward, told the club that he has no intention of agreeing to fresh terms and wants to leave.

The Mirror claims that Sterling's relationship with Rodgers is at the heart of the issue, as he no longer wants to play under the manager because he believes that the Northern Irishman has continually broken promises and revealed delicate information about contract negotiations.

The report also says that Sterling would consider staying at the club if a new manager were in charge.

Reports have circulated this week suggesting that Sterling has refused to go on the club's pre-season tour to Australia, while he allegedly phoned in sick and skipped training yesterday.

Manchester City are supposedly leading the chase for his signature, but have had two bids turned down so far.