Liverpool have set their sights on either Everton's Ross Barkley or Roma's Miralem Pjanic as a possible replacement for Steven Gerrard.

The former England skipper has announced his plan to join MLS giants LA Galaxy when his contract expires at the end of the season.

Barkley is the natural successor of Gerrard, despite the Merseyside rivalry, as he is seen as the future of English football.

The 21-year-old has been heavily linked with a move away from Goodison Park since the summer, with Manchester City, United, Chelsea and Liverpool all showing an interest.

The Toffees have slapped a £60m price tag on the England international, but that hasn't deterred Brendan Rodgers' intention to bring him to Anfield next summer.

The Reds are also reportedly keeping tabs on Bosnian playmaker Pjanic, but only see him as a back-up if they fail in their bid for Barkley.

Roma are looking to keep hold of the 24-year-old, but - according to reports in Italy - the Serie A club couldn't say no to offers close to £23.5m.

Source: Daily Express