Rafael Benitez: 'Real Madrid admire Raheem Sterling'

New Real Madrid manager Rafael Benitez has said that it is "no secret" that the La Liga giants admire Raheem Sterling.

The Liverpool forward has been repeatedly linked with a move away from Anfield in recent months, due to the ongoing uncertainly surrounding his contract.

It was reported earlier this week that Madrid had no interest in signing Sterling, but at his unveiling as the club's new manager, Benitez hinted that a transfer might be possible.

"We admire Raheem, that's no secret - but he is not one of our players so I can't really comment on him," BBC Sport quotes Benitez as saying.

Sterling scored seven goals for Liverpool in this season's Premier League.