With Raheem Sterling seemingly holding out for the sort of pocket money we could have only dreamed of as a youngster, Liverpool appear to have diverted their attention towards Arsenal’s Theo Walcott.

The Gunners ace is very much seen as a ‘plan B’ man at Anfield, with keeping their 20-year-old starlet the aim, but with his future at the Emirates Stadium unclear, he’s an intriguing option.

Walcott has long campaigned for a central role under Arsene Wenger and despite his obvious skills and pace, the England international has struggled to hold down a regular spot while never been truly becoming an essential player in north London… and the got us thinking, which other ‘unappreciated players’ could Brendan Rodgers save?

He gave Daniel Sturridge and Philippe Coutinho fresh chances and that worked, so here are FIVE potential ‘garbage to gold’ additions…

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James Milner

As the weeks go by, James Milner looks more and more likely to leave Manchester City on a free transfer this summer.

The England international’s current contract expires in just a few months’ time, and with his playing time having been minimal in terms of minutes and varied in terms of position, the 29-year-old is thought to have his eye on one last big move to play regularly in his favoured role – central midfield.

Liverpool are firmly in the hunt for the one-time Leeds prodigy, and it’s easy to see why. Although unfashionable, Milner offers a great level of work ethic, desire, commitment and know-how, while being a superbly adept technical footballer.

Although he’s now after a settled role, he can also fill in on either flank, play anywhere in midfield, function as a ‘false nine’ or even play as a right-sided wing-back or full-back.

Marc-Andre ter Stegen

Although Simon Mignolet has revived to the point that he’s now one of the best goalkeepers in the Premier League on current form, it’s not yet clear as to whether or not Liverpool will seek to replace him this summer. At the height of the Belgian’s slump – December to January – the Reds were linked with a host of names, with Ter Stegen firmly in the mix.

The German signed for Barcelona last summer from Monchengladbach with a reputation as one of the best emerging glovesmen in Europe, but he’s yet to make a single appearance in La Liga, with his only game time having come in Champions League and domestic cup action. The 22-year-old is certainly worth more game time than he’s currently getting and could well be a long-term upgrade on Mignolet, despite his recent improvements.

Stevan Jovetic

The 25-year-old was an exciting addition for City almost two years ago, but his game time has been… erm… minimal. Able to play in almost any attacking role, Jovetic should have established himself in the sky blue shirt, but injuries have played their part in his struggles, as has Manuel Pellegrini’s reluctance to truly put faith in him.

Brendan Rodgers has shown a talent for turning trash into treasure in recent seasons – Philippe Coutinho and Daniel Sturridge were unwanted at Chelsea and Inter Milan – and with Jovetic still only 25, there’s time for a top coach to extract his full potential. There have been links…

Micah Richards

Somewhat the forgotten man of English football, Richards has recently put himself back on the radar by claiming that he’s interested in heading back to the Premier League. A return to City when his current loan deal at Fiorentina ends is unlikely due to his contract’s looming expiration date, so a free transfer appears likely… and Liverpool are believed to be keen.

With another centre-back a potential addition due to Emre Can’s unorthodox role in a back three, Richards could be an addition that makes sense. With experience as a right-sided full-back, the 26-year-old possesses the attacking intent to feature in Brendan Rodgers’ system, and could thrive now he’s over his injury woes.

Yohan Cabaye

Although Steven Gerrard is by no means a pivotal figure at Anfield now – in terms of first-team importance – replacing his departing captain when he joins LA Galaxy this summer is an issue for Brendan Rodgers.

Jordan Henderson and Joe Allen look to be a good combo, but an experienced Premier League campaigned like Yohan Cabaye may be a wise addition. The Frenchman left Newcastle just over a year ago, and despite his emergence as one of the top playmakers on the block, his game time has been rationed at PSG. Liverpool have been linked with the pass-master, who could offer some stability and an alternative option.