Liverpool are reportedly ready to make AS Roma star Miralem Pjanic their top candidate to replace Steven Gerrard in midfield next summer, according to Gazzetta dello Sport.

The Bosnian playmaker has been one of Europe's top midfielders in recent times, establishing himself as a hugely important member of this Roma team and attracting interest from bigger clubs.

Liverpool will desperately need more quality in the middle of the park next season as Gerrard leaves for a move to MLS side LA Galaxy, and they may try their luck with a £23.5m bid for Pjanic.

It seems likely that it would take more than that to persuade Roma to sell one of their best players, but the Reds do seem intent on targeting the talented 24-year-old.

Liverpool will not move for Pjanic this January but are expected to make their first approach for the player in June, according to reports in Italy.

Source: CaughtOffside.com