Brendan Rodgers has said he has not given up hope in trying to persuade Glen Johnson to sign a new contract at Liverpool, as the 30-year-old enters the final six months of his current deal. Johnson is free to negotiate a deal with foreign clubs as of January 1st, which was over three weeks ago, however it is thought that he is only interested in Premier League teams.

Johnson has previously stated that there had been no firm offer from Liverpool, only "minor talks" and that he "wouldn't go crawling to anybody." Part of the problem with Johnson's contract is Liverpool's wish to make it clear he will play in a reduced role. Also, there is likely to be a huge wage drop as the Reds don't feel he is worth the current wages he earns, which is rumoured to be around £120,000 per week.

Rodgers is keen to keep Johnson at the club due to the England international's experience. Liverpool have a relatively young squad, with the side that started against Chelsea on Tuesday having an average age of less than 25. Johnson has made over 150 appearances since joining in 2009 and offers a wise head amongst young shoulders.

"Glen's obviously into his last year but I'm hopeful we can find a solution for that and he can be here. Every player wants that security and he probably wanted it sorted earlier than it has been," said Rodgers.

"But at this moment in time he realises he's at one of the biggest clubs in the world with a team developing and growing. He would want to be a part of that. I think he's more than happy to try to find a solution with the club in order to stay here. He loves being here. He enjoys working this way.

Maybe his game will adapt over the next couple of years, he's not the marauding full-back you saw six or seven years ago. But he's still a quality plyer who still has a lot to offer with his experiene and his football. He will be one we would look to keep. Hopefully between the agent and the club they can organise a deal."

Captain Steven Gerrard has already confirmed that he will depart this summer for an MLS switch, whilst Brad Jones and Kolo Touré are unlikely to have their contracts renewed. If Johnson left, that would leave Martin Skrtel and Rickie Lambert as the only players over the age of 30 at the club.

Raheem Sterling and Philippe Coutinho are both close to signing new deals, whilst contract negotations have begun for current vice-captain Jordan Henderson, who only has 18 months left on his contract.

Speaking about these, Rodgers said the following: "I'm not involved in the finer details. There is a structure at the club for those deals. (Chief executive) Ian Ayre does an excellent job of negotiating for the owners in terms of what they want and require for the model here."

Johnson is likely to return from a groin injury that has kept him out for a few weeks, as Liverpool host Bolton Wanderers on Saturday afternoon in their FA Cup fourth round tie.

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