Inter Milan are determined to win the Champions League and believe that a big-name signing such as Gerrard would help them achieve that goal. Gerrard also tops Roberto Mancini’s wish-list for next years purchases.

The Red midfield general is 27 and has two years left on his contract, an Inter official said: “We need to make a big signing for next season and Gerrard was at the centre of our thoughts.

“Liverpool gave us the most emphatic response he was not for sale.

“We have drawn up a list of alternatives. But if Liverpool decide to sell, Gerrard is our top priority.”

The bid was believed to be around £25 million.