Liverpool manager Rodgers confirms Sterling transfer

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers has confirmed the transfer of England international Raheem Sterling to a rival Premier League team, pending a medical test.

British media reported on Sunday that Liverpool had reached an agreement with Manchester City to transfer Sterling in a deal worth 49 million pounds ($76.07 million).

Rodgers, speaking at a news conference in Thailand where Liverpool are kicking off their pre-season tour of Asia and Australia, did not provide any specific details on the transfer but confirmed that an agreement had been reached.

"The situation is very simple. The club has agreed with another for a deal for Raheem to be transferred and subject to medical that will go through," Rodgers said.

"Contrary to the last week or so, in terms of what was written, Raheem and I have always remained very strong in our relationship, and have been up until he left. There's no issue there."

City had two bids for Sterling rejected last month after he turned down a pay increase to stay at the Anfield club.

The 20-year-old did not fly out with Liverpool for their pre-season tour despite being named in the squad.

Rodgers was coy about the details, saying he was focussing on the players on the tour.

"I spoke to Raheem at length yesterday, there is no issue. Two clubs have greed a deal and subject to a medical he will move on," the Northern Irishman said.

"It's important for us to improve and build the squad for this season coming. We are pleased with the players we have brought in.

"It's the overall team that is important. We aim to be stronger than last season that will be reliant on everyone."

($1 = 0.6441 pounds)