The Reds boss has hit out at talk suggesting that the club are set to bring the highly-rated England Under-21 international to Anfield during the January transfer window

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has denied that the club have agreed a deal with Derby County to sign midfielder Will Hughes.

The England Under-21 international has long been linked with a move to the Premier League, with recent reports claiming Derby County had accepted a £12 million offer for the youngster from the Reds.

However, when asked whether Liverpool had a deal in place to sign Hughes in January, Rodgers told reporters: “Nothing could be further from the truth.

“I feel for this young guy. He’s a very talented young player.

“People aren’t doing him any favours linking him with a move to Liverpool all the time.

“There’s been no bid or deal agreed. He’s at the best place he could be.”

The 18-year-old, who has hit four goals in 18 appearances for Derby this season, is viewed as one of the most exciting talents in England to play his football outside of the top flight.

Although it now seems unlikely that Liverpool will make an offer for Hughes in January, reports suggest they may well come back with a bid in the summer.