Reds spent ÂŁ20million on midfielder
Benfica are looking to end Lazar Markovic’s time at Liverpool, and are plotting to bring the forward back to Portugal.
Markovic has endured a miserable season on Merseyside, after arriving at Anfield for £20m.
But he was continuously shifted around by Reds manager Brendan Rodgers, never really adapting to a single position.
Now, according to Portuguese newspaper A Bola, he could be set for a return to his former club.
Benfica Eye Loan-Deal
However, one potential stumbling block may be that Benfica only want Markovic on a season-long loan, while Liverpool are seeking a permanent deal as they try to regroup after a hugely disappointing season by their standards.
They failed to make the Champions League places, finishing sixth, and were miles off the title pace.
If Markovic does move to Benfica, he will not be welcomed by manager Jorge Jesus, as he has made a move to rivals Sporting Lisbon.
He is replaced as Benfica boss by Rui Vitoria, as announced by the club this morning.
by Steve Osborne