Reds boss Hodgson adamant Torres is not for sale

All three players have persistently been linked with big-money moves away from Anfield this summer and retaining their services is one of new manager Hodgson's top priorities.

Hodgson, who took charge a fortnight ago, met with Torres for the first time this week following the striker's return from the World Cup in South Africa.

Chelsea, Manchester City and Barcelona have all been touted as potential destinations for the 26-year-old Spaniard for fees upwards of 50m.

Hodgson, speaking at his team's pre-season training camp in Switzerland, said: "As far as we are concerned he is a Liverpool player and we want him to remain a Liverpool player.

"He is not for sale and we don't welcome any offers for him. We want to keep him.

"We spoke about football, the World Cup, his injury, and I told him how much I am looking forward to working with him."

The situation concerning Mascherano seems more problematic as Hodgson concedes he has been unable to make contact with the Argentina captain since his World Cup involvement ended.

Mascherano, 26, is thought to be a target for his former Anfield boss Rafael Benitez at Inter Milan with his agent claiming the European champions are interested.

Hodgson said: "I have tried to contact Javier. I have left him voice messages and sent him texts but had no reply.

"To be fair to him, that's not unusual because he's had a tough World Cup and I believe he's gone back to Argentina.

"It's not always easy to get in touch with people. I have tried to reach him to make clear I am happy to talk with him at his convenience."

Speculation over Gerrard's status at the club has cooled following Hodgson's arrival and England's World Cup captain has publicly backed the appointment.

Hodgson's first competitive test as Liverpool manager will take place at Anfield after his team were handed an early home match in Europa League qualifying.

The Reds, having to play in the third qualifying round of UEFA's second-tier competition, will face Rabotnicki of Macedonia or Armenia's FC Mika on July 29 with the away leg the following week.

Their opponents will be confirmed next week after the conclusion of the second qualifying round. Rabotnicki currently hold the edge in their tie with Mika after a 1-0 win on Thursday.