Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is launching a £12 million bid for Chelsea striker Danny Sturridge.

The Sunday Express says Rodgers has been trying to bolster his strike force since the summer and Sturridge has been one of his long-time targets.

His loan deal bid for Sturridge during the last transfer window failed but he is still interested. He has faced a striking crisis all season since he allowed Andy Carroll to join West Ham on loan and failed to land a replacement.

Chelsea want £15m for the former Manchester City man but will settle for a slightly lower fee rather than keep an unhappy player at Stamford Bridge.