Dempsey deal left Rodgers fighting a war on two fronts

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers spent transfer deadline day trying to convince his club's American owners to pay 7 million pounds for Fulham's Clint Dempsey.

As the clock ticked before the closure of the transfer window, it emerged Rodgers was not just negotiating with Dempsey's club Fulham, but also his own hierarchy as he argued his case on the merits of signing the 29 year-old from Craven Cottage.

On another odd day in the tumultuous recent boardroom history at the Merseyside club, it became apparent the main stumbling block in a deal was Fenway Sports Group's transfer policy and new financial constraints.

Despite slashing the wage bill by millions, including offloading Andy Carroll on the presumption it would free funds for a replacement, Rodgers was informed there was not enough money to sanction all the deals he wanted.

Although terms were in place for American international Dempsey, FSG were also reluctant to spend any money on a player in his late twenties.

Rodgers had to effectively request a rethink on the entire 'moneyball' mantra that had been emphasised when John Henry bought Liverpool nearly two years ago.

Dempsey had earlier rejected the chance to join Aston Villa, desperate for Liverpool to reopen negotiations, and that offered hope for Rodgers to ensure he did not have to attempt to compete for a top-four place with only Luis Suarez as an experienced centre forward.

FSG had stated previously they would rather invest in young talent rather than those who will have no sell on value at the end of their contracts.

Rodgers' argument was his side needed a blend of youth and experience and Dempsey is a proven

goalscorer over five seasons in English football.

It seemed inconceivable as the deadline approached, having allowed Carroll to join West Ham on loan, Rodgers would be left with only Suarez as an experienced striker.

The transfer window has proven a thorough education for the latest Anfield incumbent on the financial reality gripping the club.

Chairman Tom Werner suggested last season Liverpool could match the top clubs in Europe.

"I would say we certainly have the resources to compete with anybody in football," he said on April 12.

That seemed a lavish promise as Rodgers waited anxiously for the green light to sign Dempsey, particularly given the amount of senior players who have left since he was appointed, many of whom he was helpless to prevent departing.

Numerous high-earning players have left since the end of last season, including Dirk Kuyt, Craig Bellamy, Alberto Aquilani, Carroll and Max Rodriguez. Fabio Aurelio, Charlie Adam and Jay Spearing have also been moved on, equating to a conservative estimate of 20 million pounds slashed in wages, and yet Rodgers still found himself pleading for every last penny to try to force through the Dempsey deal.

Liverpool also held talks with Chelsea for the loan signing of Daniel Sturridge, but the England international wanted to make the transfer permanent.

Rodgers possessed neither the funds nor the inclination to bid 15 million pounds for his services. Liverpool's chances of a temporary deal were also dependent on Chelsea completing a deal for a replacement striker.

Roberto Di Matteo faced his own frustrations trying to secure Bayer Leverkusen's Andre Schurrie or Marseille striker Loic Remy.

The early part of the day at Anfield was spent offloading players. Adam moved to Stoke for 4 million pounds and Spearing headed to Bolton for a season's loan. Rodgers was not able to reinvest all the Adam fee, however, as the Scot was entitled to a pay-off, having not requested a transfer.

He left Merseyside with high regard from the manager.

"I just want to put on record my thanks to Charlie Adam," said Rodgers. "Charlie, since I've come in here, has been top class in his training and his mentality. He is a player who wants to play football. Both him and I had a mutual respect on that.

"He knew his situation but he never gave anything less than 100%. Those guys who have gone out have gone out to get games of football."

Everton have agreed a fee with FC Copenhagen for versatile Costa Rica international Bryan Oviedo.

The 22 year-old, who can operate at left-back and on the left side of midfield, has been a regular starter for FCK after joining from Deportivo Saprissa in his homeland.