New Reds boss Roy Hodgson is said to be keen to bring the Australian keeper to Merseyside for next season and has opened talks with Boro to do a deal.

Jones missed Australia's World Cup campaign after flying home to be with his family after his toddler son was diagnosed with leukaemia.

He will miss Middlesbrough's opening game of the Championship season through suspension and it now appears he may have played his last game for the Teeside club.

Sky Sports in the UK are reporting that Liverpool had now made a firm offer for the keeper as a back up to Spanish number one, Pepe Reina, but it is understood the bid has been rejected by Boro.

Meanwhile Boro coach Gordon Strachan has already entered the transfer market to find a replacement for Jones.

He has been linked with Crystal Palace keeper Julian Speroni which suggests a revised Liverpool bid would be accepted by the club.