The 26-year-old has publicly announced he is searching for a move away from Liverpool but his wishes have been rejected by the club who insist the player is not for sale

Liverpool have insisted want-away striker Luis Suarez is not for sale after the player announced his desire to leave Anfield this summer.

Suarez confirmed his ambition to leave the club on Thursday, stating the effect of the English press on his public image and family life as the main reasons for wanting a transfer.

The Uruguay international publicly announced his intention to leave the club despite the continued stance that the player is not for sale, with Liverpool reiterating their desire to keep their leading striker.

“Luis Suarez is not for sale – neither Luis or his representatives have communicated these feelings directly to Liverpool football club,” a Liverpool spokesman told Goal.

“The club remains supportive of Luis and expect him to honour his contract. We will not be making any further comment at this stage.”

Suarez was named as Liverpool Fans’ Player of the Year by supporters after leading the goal-scoring charts with 30 goals in all competitions, but controversy surrounding the striker has led to a fractured relationship with fans outside the club.

The decision of the 26-year-old to publicly state his desire to leave comes amid rumours suggesting he is being tracked by Spanish giants, Real Madrid.