Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has refused to be drawn on speculation linking Liverpool starlet Raheem Sterling with a move to the Emirates.

The North London outfit are believed to have joined the race for the England international, who has reportedly attracted interest from Real Madrid, Bayern Munich and Manchester City.

Earlier this week, Sterling, who has put contract talks with Liverpool on hold until the end of the season, admitted that he is flattered by the rumours linking him to Arsenal.

Wenger, whose side will face Liverpool on Saturday, sidestepped questions about the 20-year-old in this morning's press conference by saying: "Sterling is a top player. I think everybody knows that in the country now and he's a very important player for Liverpool.

"I don't want to interfere in [the contract situation], especially just 48 hours before the game. That's down to Liverpool quizzing him, it's not my problem.

"I have a big respect for Liverpool, but I am focused on the game and producing the performances we have done recently."

Sterling currently has two years remaining on his contract at Anfield.