Raheem Sterling to Real Madrid: Liverpool starlet linked with transfer to Bernabeu

Player stands out. Goes to Real Madrid.

It's a familiar tale that if reports are to be believed could soon relate to Liverpool starlet Raheem Sterling.

The England international has been in sensational form this season scoring three goals in five league appearances. It follows on from a brilliant campaign last term in which his nine goals helped Liverpool nearly clinch the Premier League title.

As is to be expected, speculation has begun to stir linking him with a move away from Anfield.

With Sterling still just 19 years of age, there is obvious excitement about the levels the former QPR youth player could reach and that's led to reports that Real Madrid are growing increasingly keen on making a move.

The rumours are fuelled by Sterling's contract situation that sees him currently paid £30,000 - considerably less than many of his team-mates. Sterling's current deal ties him to the club until 2017.

Last summer Real Madrid pursued Gareth Bale before paying Tottenham a record transfer fee of £86m for the Welshman. The forward settled almost immediately and played a key role in delivering a tenth European title for Real Madrid. The success of that deal could persuade Real Madrid that signing another British player could be a success.