Sturridge wants to leave Anfield this month in an attempt to make a late run into England boss Gareth Southgate’s World Cup plans.
And even though the striker would prefer a permanent deal, he had agreed to join Inter on loan for the rest of the season with an option for a longer term agreement in the summer.
But Inter feel that £30m is too high for a player who is 28, with his injury record, and who will be out of contract in 18 months.
West Ham, Southampton and Sevilla are all also interested in signing Sturridge, but Liverpool’s asking price remains an obstacle.