Pannu claims Liverpool interested in Butland

Birmingham City acting chairman Peter Pannu has confirmed Liverpool are in talks with goalkeeper Jack Butland.

The highly rated shot-stopper is being lined-up by Liverpool as a replacement for Pepe Reina, who has struggled to match his usual high standards so far this season.

With Birmingham struggling financially since their relegation from the English Premier League in 2010/11, they may be forced to sell some of their prized assets.

Pannu has confirmed Liverpool, among others, are interested in the promising young goalkeeper.

He told the Birmingham Mail: “I understand there are talks with Liverpool, I understand that Everton might be interested, Southampton gave me an offer in the past, I know not whether they want him.”

“What I can say is that – and I might be blasted for this by the fans … everyone is available. As in any club.

“Give me a 15 million-pound offer for Jack Butland, can I say no?

“I have rejected 6 million pounds from Southampton but I rejected it when our finances were OK.

“As the time is ticking, I might not be able to reject it if I get something similar.”