Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has issued a firm ‘hands-off’ warning over star striker Fernando Torres who has been linked with the likes of Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona (Reds 9/1 – 2010 Premier League Outright).

The Spain World Cup winner, who suffered a thigh problem during the final win over Holland which could see him miss the start of the Premier League season, is currently on holiday.

But Hodgson has already met with the 26-year-old former Atletico Madrid star, as he has with England midfielder Steven Gerrard.

And the former Fulham chief insists neither is up for sale as he bids to lead the Reds back into the top four during the forthcoming season.

Hodgson said: “As far as we are concerned he is a Liverpool player and we want him to remain a Liverpool player.

“He is not for sale and we don’t welcome any offers for him. We want to keep him.

“We spoke about football, the World Cup, his injury, and I told him how much I am looking forward to working with him.”

Hodgson also says he has held “positive” talks with Gerrard who has spent his entire career with the Anfield outfit.

“We are in a situation where we hear our players are being courted by other teams but it is all just rumours,” Hodgson added.

“What we haven’t had is a club wanting to buy Steven Gerrard. Steven Gerrard is not for sale – I made that clear to him.”

One player who looks set to move on imminently is left-back Emiliano Insua who is in talks with Italian side Fiorentina over a £5m switch.

Meanwhile, Hodgson admits he has been unable to touch base with Argentina captain Javier Mascherano who is believed to have returned home following the World Cup.

Hodgson revealed at the club?s Swiss training camp: “I have tried to contact Javier. I have left him voice messages and sent him texts but had no reply.

“To be fair to him, that’s not unusual because he’s had a tough World Cup and I believe he’s gone back to Argentina.

“It’s not always easy to get in touch with people. I have tried to reach him to make clear I am happy to talk with him at his convenience.”

Liverpool kick off the Premier League season with a home clash against Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal (8/1 – Opening Day Fixtures – Game With Most Goals).

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