Mirror: Reds target refuses to sign contract

Schalke midfielder Lewis Holtby will not sign a new contract with the Bundesliga club - paving the way for a summer move to Liverpool, according to Goal.com.

The 22-year-old has failed to reach an agreement after several months of negotiations over a new contract at the Veltins Arena.

Liverpool have been monitoring the player's situation and are one of several Premier League clubs understood to be interested in the player.

Brendan Rodgers may now step up his interest with Holtby free to negotiate with foreign clubs come January.

Holtby, a boyhood Everton fan, has reportedly demanded almost £5million a year to stay at Schalke - although his agent Markus Noack claims that figure has been 'plucked out of the air'.

An announcement on his future will be made later today, while Holtby has previously stated his desire to play in the Premier League, although he has criticised the absence of a winter break.

"The break in the Bundesliga gives everyone the chance to have a rest.

"We also get the chance to go back and spend time with our families over Christmas, which is important.

"I know how ­important football is to English fans over the Christmas break, but it must take its toll on the players.

"For the rest of us it doesn't make too much sense ­because when players are tired and playing so ­regularly you do pick up little niggles and ­injuries."

Source: Daily Mirror