Nuri Sahin wants to help Liverpool secure Champions League spot

Nuri Sahin says Liverpool can finish in the top four this season and has not ruled out making his loan move from Real Madrid permanent.

The Turkish midfielder, 23, who had also been linked with Arsenal this summer, joined Brendan Rodgers's side on a season-long loan on Saturday.

Asked whether the move could be made permanent, he said: "You never know.

"I am looking forward to playing this season and we will do everything to get into the top four."

Sahin joined Real Madrid from Bundesliga champions Borussia Dortmund last summer but an injury in September hampered his ability to make an impression on Jose Mourinho's side and he made just 11 appearances as they won La Liga last season.

He completed a full pre-season at Real without problems, but accepted he would need to move away from the Bernabeu in order to play regularly.

Sahin says he spoke to Real team-mate Xabi Alonso, who played for Liverpool between 2004 and 2009, and the Spain international recommended a move to Anfield.

"I didn't play so many games so it was important for me to come to a club where I have the chance to play at a high level and Liverpool is the best club for me right now," added Sahin.

"Xabi said good things. He played a long time for Liverpool and and he is still in love with the club."

Sahin watched as Liverpool drew 2-2 with Premier League champions Manchester City on Sunday.

"Watching the game against Manchester City you can see the style of the team is very good," he said.

"What people told me about Liverpool is what I see now. They are a very big football club with a huge history and I think I have made the right choice."