Liverpool’s former managing director Christian Purslow believes Luis Suarez will stay with the Reds unless a club other than Arsenal make a bid for him.The Gunners have had two offers for Suarez, 26, rejected by Liverpool.
And Purslow does not envisage the Reds selling to a club they hope to rival for a top four place next season.
“If the only offer is from Arsenal I would expect Luis Suarez to stay at Liverpool,” Purslow told BBC Radio 5 live’s Sportsweek programme.
Suarez, who has spoken of his desire to leave to play Champions League football, came on as a second-half substitute in Steven Gerrard’s testimonial at Anfield on Saturday.
The striker was given a rousing reception from Liverpool’s fans when he came on, although he did little to acknowledge the show of support.
“It’s disappointing as a follower of Liverpool that the player has so publicly and so early in the close season made it pretty clear that he would like to move on,” said Purslow.
“I’m pretty realistic about these things and it’s not that unusual for a player of that magnitude to want to play at Champions League level. That appears to be his motivation.”
Arsenal’s latest offer for Suarez was £40m and £1 and, although the Uruguayan international believes the amount triggers a release a clause in his contract, Liverpool do not agree.
Purslow added: “I think there is also an issue with Suarez’s judgement.
“I think coming out so publicly early in the close season he was thinking of Arsenal when he made it clear he wanted to move.” – BBC Sport
