Liverpool legend John Aldridge has warned the Reds that another failed top-four bid is likely unless they recruit a "proven goalscorer".

Manager Brendan Rodgers has already welcomed a raft of new names to Anfield this summer, including Brazil striker Roberto Firmino and ex-Burnley hitman Danny Ings.

Deep-lying playmaker Steven Gerrard finished as the club's top goalscorer in the Premier League last season with nine as forward Mario Balotelli and Rickie Lambert struggled.

Daniel Sturridge missed much of the 2015-16 campaign through injury, and Aldridge says that Liverpool - who finished sixth - can expect to miss out on the Champions League again unless a talisman is signed.

"Liverpool have bought some good players in recent weeks, but they will still struggle to finish in the top four because they haven't bagged a proven goal scorer," he told The Star.

"I'm very happy with Nathaniel Clyne as we needed someone in that position, the Brazilian Firmino should slot right in and Milner is a good signing following the departure of Steve Gerrard. But they have not signed the 20-goal-a-season player they really need. Unfortunately Sturridge will not deliver that many goals and Ings will struggle to get the chances in his first season.

"They haven't replaced Suarez and that's what they had to do. You need someone who will score 20-plus goals season in, season out and they still haven't got that player. And without that striker they will not break into the top four - where the fans expect them to be."

Highly-rated Aston Villa forward Christian Benteke is reportedly keen to join the Merseyside club, who are said to have submitted an improved £25m bid in recent weeks.