Elia eyes elite

Hamburg ace and reported Liverpool target Eljero Elia has declared he wants to join one of Europe's elite.

The Dutch winger has been strongly linked with a move to the Premier League this January with both Liverpool and Wigan keen.

The Latics attempted to get the 23-year-old on-loan, while Liverpool were thought to be looking at a potential permanent deal.

However, skysports.com understands that Hamburg are looking for €20million for the winger, which has immediately put off Liverpool and any other potential suitors, with a number of rivals Bundesliga clubs also keen.

"I have learned a lot in the Bundesliga. I am very grateful to the HSV," Elia told Bild.

"HSV is also a top team. But I would love to play for one of the special clubs such as Real Madrid , FC Barcelona or Manchester United.

Elia enjoyed a successful World Cup last summer and he feels that his displays in South Africa demonstrated his talents.

"I played with the Dutch national team at the World Cup and showed what level I can perform at, I passed that test," he continued.

Elia still has three-and-a-half years left on his current deal with Hamburg after they signed him from FC Twente in 2009.

But he is now seemingly keen to move on, but so far Hamburg insist only Wigan have made a bid for him.

"We cannot deny there is interest, but there is only one specific offer which came from Wigan to take him on loan for six months," said Hamburg's sporting director Bastian Reinhardt.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.