target Lewis Holtby has refused to sign a new deal with German club Schalke, paving the way for a potential move to Anfield in the summer, the Mirror reports.

It is believed that the German international has failed to agree terms for a new deal with his current club after several months of negotiations, putting a host of interested suitors on alert.

Liverpool have reportedly been monitoring the 22-year-old's progress and manager Brendan Rodgers is now set to step up his pursuit of the midfielder as the player is allowed to speak to foreign clubs from January.

Holtby, who has been capped three times by his country has stated his desire to play in the Premier League despite criticising the lack of a winter break.

“The break in the Bundesliga gives everyone the chance to have a rest," he said.

“We also get the chance to go back and spend time with our families over Christmas, which is important."

“I know how ­important football is to English fans over the Christmas break, but it must take its toll on the players."

“For the rest of us it doesn’t make too much sense ­because when players are tired and playing so ­regularly you do pick up little niggles and ­injuries.”

An announcement on Holtby's future is expected later today and Rodgers will be keeping a close eye on the situation as he looks to strengthen his squad after watching them slump to another defeat last night, this time at the hands of Stoke City.