Liverpool have reportedly reignited their interest in Barcelona's David Villa and are now weighing up a summer approach for the forward.

The Reds had failed in their attempt to bring the Spain international to Anfield on loan in January as Barca refused to sell during mid-season. However, according to the Daily Mirror, Brendan Rodgers has now returned for the former Valencia man, following Luis Suarez's 10-match suspension for biting Chelsea's Branislav Ivanovic on the arm two weeks ago.

David Villa
Reuters

The ban will see the Liverpool talisman missing the opening six games of the next league season and Rodgers is now keen on adding a high-profile striker to his ranks, to avoid yet another disappointing start to the campaign. The report also points out the Merseyside outfit might be forced to sell Suarez this summer.

Villa has struggled to secure first-team appearances at Barcelona this season and has managed just 13 La Liga starts so far. The forward could fall further down the pecking order, should the Catalans secure the services of long-time target Neymar.

The 31-year-old does not fit into the Reds' American owners' policy of signing young players with a resale value but Rodgers is understood to be looking for an experienced attacking talent.

Gerrard: Merseyside Derby Means an Awful Lot to us

Meanwhile, Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard has stated the Reds are determined to close down the five-point gap with Everton to two on Sunday's Merseyside derby at Anfield.

"Playing against our neighbours means an awful lot to us and to the fans. The results makes or breaks people's weekends in the city. Our record against Everton is decent, yet we all know that guarantees absolutely nothing. David Moyes's team have been in the top six for most of the season and that's no fluke," the England captain said.

"They are a strong side, which they proved by coming back from two goals down in the draw at Goodison Park. Physically they can match most opponents and they also have some skilful players who can cause problems. Right now the gap between the teams is five points. For us that's not good enough and we'll be aiming to cut the deficit to two this afternoon," Gerrard added.