Liverpool Transfer News: Sturridge, Dempsey, Van Wolfswinkel and Vargas Discussed in Latest Speculation

When Brendan Rodgers took the reins at Liverpool earlier this summer, it always appeared that there would be a significant overhaul of the playing staff at Anfield. Several big moves have already been completed, but as Rodgers looks to mold a squad capable of playing his particular brand of short-passing, intense-pressing football, some major deals could still be completed before the close of the transfer window.

Real Madrid playmaker Nuri Sahin became the latest recruit last week when he signed a season-long loan deal with Liverpool. Speaking at his unveiling, Sahin even suggested that his stay on Merseyside could become permanent.

"You never know," the Turkey international said, according to the BBC.

"I am looking forward to playing this season and we will do everything to get into the top four."

According to the Daily Mirror, Liverpool are looking to move on some of the players that don't fit squarely in Rodgers' plans in order to fund a late move for Daniel Sturridge. The report states that both Charlie Adam and Stewart Downing could be sacrificed in order to raise the £15 million needed to wrest the forward away from Stamford Bridge.

Midfielder Adam has been linked with a move away in recent times, although the departure of Downing, just a year after joining the club for £20 million, would represent more of a surprise.

While Sturridge may be receptive to a move, given that he looks set to predominantly start from the substitute's bench this season, Chelsea are likely to be reluctant to sell, given that Fernando Torres is their only other established striker.

As they seek to rectify the scoring problems that afflicted the club last season, Liverpool have also been linked to Sporting Lisbon striker Ricky van Wolfswinkel.

The Dutchman had an impressive first season in Portugal during the last campaign, scoring 14 goals in 21 league starts. But amid criticism of his form so far this term, a report in Portuguese publication Record claims that CSKA Moscow could be set to offer €13 million for the 23-year-old.

Another player looking increasingly unlikely to be heading to Anfield is Fiorentina midfielder Juan Manuel Vargas. Liverpool are one of a number of clubs to have been mentioned in connection with a potential move for the Peru international this summer. However, according to Italian publication La Gazzetta dello Sport, Genoa could be poised to swoop for the 28-year-old.

Talksport reports that Genoa's interest could prompt Brendan Rodgers to step up his attempts to sign Vargas, who plays predominantly as a left winger.

Liverpool may also have to move fast if they are to succeed in their pursuit of Fulham attacking midfielder Clint Dempsey. Metro reports that Sunderland are now poised to sign the United States international despite the player still yearning for a move to Anfield.

Dempsey has yet to feature for Fulham so far this season as he allegedly tries to force through his exit from Craven Cottage. Yet, Liverpool are still to make a firm offer for the 29-year-old. That has brought Sunderland into the picture, who are ready to meet Fulham's asking price of £8 million, according to Metro.