Lucas set for Liverpool exit after fall down Anfield pecking order strains relations with Brendan Rodgers

Death, taxes and Lucas leaving Anfield

It seems we do this every transfer window, but Lucas Leiva could finally be on his way out of Liverpool this summer. The Brazilian midfielder has come close to moving on from Anfield several times in recent seasons amid reports of a difficult relationship with boss Brendan Rodgers, only to win back his place in the side and remain, but his omission from the matchday squad that faced Stoke in Sunday's Premier League opener could be the final straw. The 28-year-old brought solidity to the base of Liverpool's midfield during their best run last season, but the arrival of James Milner from Manchester City and the development of Germany Under-21 star Emre Can look to have made him surplus to requirements. Lucas did not travel to Stoke with the squad, but took part in a behind-closed-doors friendly against TNS yesterday. A number of teams in Italy have been linked with Lucas in the past, with Inter known admirers, and should Liverpool's £8million valuation be met, the player could be let go to Serie A.