Taiwo Awoniyi wants to make the grade at Liverpool, according to his former youth coach.

The Nigerian forward has been unable to feature for Liverpool since joining in 2015 due to work permit issues.

Awoniyi is currently enjoying a successful loan at Union Berlin, his seventh such spell, but his former youth coach, Atiba Bankole, says he always has one eye on Anfield.

He said to First Time Finish: "His goal is to make the next step. He really, really wants to play for Liverpool, and he told us in the beginning of the season that he wants to be among the highest goal-scorers in the Bundesliga."

Asked if Awoniyi can reach his goals, Bankole added: "If he stays fit and continues to get the opportunities I think he can do it."