Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is confident that Luis Suarez's contract extension "will take care of itself".

It was reported on Wednesday that the Reds managing director, Ian Ayre, had begun preliminary talks with the Uruguayan player's agent, with the hope the club could tie their star striker down to a new deal.

The contract extension is speculated to make Suarez the best paid player in Liverpool history, with an offer of around £200,000 per week believed to be in the offing.

Rodgers insists that all discussions will remain private, however he is hopeful that he can build the team around the 26-year-old.

"There's nothing to report on that [the Suarez contract extension]. Contractually, with any players, it is private so at the minute he is just focusing on his football," said the Liverpool boss.

"We're just concentrating on the football, on performance levels and improving.

"I think it will all take care of itself.

"There's no rush at this moment in time, he's a player we want to keep here and build a team around in the next couple of years."

Suarez has been the Merseyside club's standout performer this season, netting 17 goals in 12 games.

Rodgers was a quick to point out that the former Ajax striker's attitude, both on and off the pitch, has impressed him just as much as his goal scoring exploits.

Suarez captained Liverpool in their 5-0 win over Tottenham on Sunday, a indication of just how highly regarded the Uruguayan is by the club.

"He is maturing, accepting the role and responsibility I've given him at the club," said Rodgers.

"He is one of the pillars of the group, for me.

"He's in a good place and long may it continue. He is a humble man with a unique desire to win games.

"If you judge him on his football, he is up there with the world's best."