Reds hopeful on Skrtel deal

Sky Sports understands Liverpool are close to agreeing a new deal with defender Martin Skrtel.

Skrtel's future at Anfield has been the subject of speculation this summer with the Slovakian claiming he was aware of interest from other club's in his services.

The 27-year-old, who joined Liverpool in January 2008, enjoyed his best season at Anfield last term, winning the club's Player of the Year award.

Skrtel has two years to run on his current contract, but Reds boss Brendan Rodgers is keen to secure his long-term future.

Rodgers sees Skrtel as a key member of his future plans on Merseyside and is ready to reward with a new contract.

Liverpool tied down Luis Suarez down to a long-term contract earlier this month and they hope Skrtel will soon follow suit.