Liverpool's Downing bid turned down

Liverpool have had their initial offer of 15m GBP for Stewart Downing turned down. The Aston Villa winger is valued by his club at 19m GBP, and Alex Mcleish has told the Reds that 15m is not enough to move the England international.

Alex McLeish wants to keep the player at Aston Villa, as he sees the player an important part of his first team plans this season.

Liverpool have also been linked with Charlie Adams, amongst others.

Downing played all 38 games for Aston Villa last year, scoring 7 goals. He is also regarded as one of the most consistent crossers of the ball in the Premiership, 2nd only to Leighton Baines of Everton.