Liverpool Close In On Loan Deal For Barcelona Winger Tello - Report

Barcelona winger Cristian Tello is on the brink of signing for Liverpool on a loan deal until the end of the season according to reports in the Spanish media.

The 22-year-old was pursued by Brendan Rodgers during the summer transfer window and even received an offer from the Merseyside club until he eventually opted to stay at the Nou Camp, signing a contract extension until 2016.

But Tello has failed to impose himself on Gerardo Martino's first team plans this campaign, making just three starting appearances for the club in all competitions.

Having already aired his frustrations over his lack of playing time, Marca report the Spanish youngster is now on the verge of moving to Anfield on a short term deal until the end of this season.

A frustrated Tello initially stated that he would see out the remainder of the campaign at the Catalan giants before deciding upon his future next summer. But a move to the red half of Merseyside would almost certainly provide him with greater chances for first team football, a situation that may suit both clubs and the player.

"I will wait and see how things go from here until the end of the season," Tello said, speaking to AS earlier this month.

"If I do not play as much as I would like, I will think about leaving.

"To take that step will be pretty difficult, but I believe each person must evaluate their own role. As the years pass by you want your role to change and to have more minutes."

It could be as busy month for Liverpool as they look to replicate the success they enjoyed in the winter window last time around. FC Basel winger Mohamed Salah is also on the verge of completing a move to the Premier League after the Reds reportedly agreed a fee of £7m with the Swiss champions.