Downing: Suarez future to be sorted out soon

Liverpool's Stewart Downing insists the squad are not caught up in the media frenzy surrounding Luis Suarez's future at Anfield.

The Uruguay international intends to leave Liverpool this summer, citing persecution by the English media as his reason for wanting out.

That has not stopped Premier League rivals Arsenal from making bids for Suarez, with La Liga giants Real Madrid also believed to be monitoring the situation closely, despite Reds manager Brendan Rodgers' insistence the forward will not be sold.

Speaking to The Sun, Downing revealed that he sensed no change in Suarez's attitude during training and the furore surrounding the 26-year old was not interfering with the team's pre-season preparations.

"He's had some good discussions with the manager, which will remain private. For us, as players, nothing changes. He's still the same player and he's a great lad to have around the place. He gets on well with all the lads. Luis knows we all want him to stay. It’d be so disappointing to lose him," Downing stated.

"What's going on with Luis isn't a distraction. Pre-season has gone really well and we've got some good results. Now we want to really push on, since he came back Luis has been training really well and I think whatever happens with his Liverpool future will be sorted out in the next week or two."

Former Liverpool star Michael Owen questioned a reported move to Arsenal by Suarez, pointing out that leaving for Spain would suit the striker's intentions of shining in the Champions League much better.

"Arsenal are a fabulous club and have got a great heritage but Liverpool are as big - if not bigger, I'd be very surprised if he were to move to Arsenal. Madrid or Barcelona would make more sense," he said to BBC Sportsweek.

"From Suarez's point of view, you can understand him if he wants to reach the absolute pinnacle of the game - that's playing in the Champions League. Liverpool obviously are not in that at the moment. Truthfully, can you really see Arsenal winning the Champions League next season or going into the later stages? Unless they buy a good few players then I can't."