Liverpool are reportedly prepared to wait until after the World Cup to seal the signature of Southampton captain Adam Lallana.

The Merseyside outfit were initially reported to be eager to complete the move before the tournament gets underway in Brazil next Thursday.

However, according to Goal.com, Liverpool have told Lallana that he remains their main transfer target and will wait until his stint with England comes to an end this summer if needs be.

Reports have claimed that the Reds, who have lodged a £25m bid for the midfielder, want Lallana to submit a transfer request in order to push through a move.

Southampton are said to be standing firm, despite the 26-year-old reportedly informing the club's hierarchy that he wants to play for Brendan Rodgers's team, who will compete in the Champions League next season.

It has been reported that Liverpool will not increase their bid.