John Barnes: Why Raheem Sterling should STAY at Liverpool

That is the view of former Kop favourite John Barnes.

Sterling has reportedly stalled over a new deal which is thought to be worth £100,000-a-week.

The 20-year-old has turned a lot of heads, with Chelsea, City and Real Madrid all believed to be clamouring for his signature.

But Barnes believes Sterling should stay at Anfield for at least two more years before thinking about his next move.

"I would advise any young player who has been in the game for one or one and half years to stay and learn his trade," Barnes told talkSPORT.

"Show consistency over a four or five-year period before you make a big move, because then he will be judged as a 50million player.

"I don't think he is ready for a move to Real Madrid, Barcelona or Manchester City.

"As a Liverpool fan I want him to stay but I think himself he needs to be very careful.

"Unfortunately the bad advice often sounds the most lucrative and therefore the best advice.

"Has he been playing consistently well over a long time? No he hasn't and maybe his form has suffered because of the whole situation about that (contract)."

Barnes also pointed to Scott Sinclair and Jack Rodwell as prime examples that Sterling shouldn't follow.

He added: "We saw it with Scott Sinclair and Jack Rodwell, who both went to Man City. Where are they now?

"I think any young player should show a level of consistency where you are happy and people accept you and then if you want to put yourself under pressure by making a big money move do that - because it can all go wrong.

"I think [he needs] another two or three years at Liverpool and if he then decides he wants to move on then fine."