And in a statement on the Swansea City website, chairman Huw Jenkins confirmed that they were in the market for a new manager.

"I was contacted by Liverpool last night and they expressed their wish to speak to Brendan regarding their vacancy," Jenkins said.

"I had a discussion with Brendan to talk about their interest and his views on whether he wanted to speak to Liverpool.

"He expressed his wish with me to do that and he has spoken to Liverpool today (Wednesday).

"Following on from discussions with Liverpool's owners, Brendan has informed us that he would like to take up their offer to manage Liverpool."

The Northern Irishman, who will leave Swansea having secured their promotion to the Premier League 12 months ago, emerged as the outstanding candidate in recent days after Wigan manager Roberto Martinez ruled himself out.

The Reds' American owners FSG have agreed a compensation package worth upwards of five million pounds with the Welsh club to secure the former Chelsea youth team manager.

Rodgers will be tasked with improving on Liverpool's disappointing eighth-placed finish under Kenny Dalglish this season, with the Merseyside outfit picking up only five league wins following the turn of the year.

In contrast, Rodgers guided Swansea to an impressive first season in the top flight, including a 1-0 win over Liverpool on the final day of the season.

The 39-year-old was one of a number of targets shortlisted by Liverpool's owners following Dalglish's sacking on May 16, with ex-Chelsea boss Andre Villas-Boas and Martinez the front runners alongside Rodgers.