Southampton have reportedly turned down a £5m bid for Peter Crouch from European champions Liverpool.
Saints manager Harry Redknapp wants the England striker, 24, to lead Saints’ attempt to win promotion back to the Premiership at the first attempt.
Crouch, who made his England debut against Colombia on 31 May, scored 16 goals from 24 matches for Southampton last season.
Southampton are thought to value the lanky striker – who they signed for £2m from Aston Villa in July 2004 – at about £7m.
With Milan Baros set to leave Anfield this summer, Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez is keen to strengthen his options up front.
