Is Van the man for Liverpool?

Liverpool are prepared to offer Ruud Van Nistelrooy a route back to the Premier League, according to reports.

Rafael Benitez is on the look-out for a striker as back-up to Fernando Torres, and the Reds have also been linked with a move for Stoke's James Beattie, who could be on his way out of the Britannia after his bust-up with Tony Pulis.

Van Nistelrooy's time at Real Madrid looks to be up, and Liverpool are said to be putting together a pay-as-you-play package for the Dutchman.

A 'source close to the Merseyside club' has been quoted as saying: "There is a definite interest in van Nistelrooy, but doing a deal will be very difficult unless the situation changes financially.

"His fitness record is a big worry, and there are reservations regarding signing a player who has suffered injuries given the amount of problems the squad has suffered this season."

Van Nistelrooy spent five years in England previously with Manchester United, before completing a £24m move to the Bernabeu in the summer of 2006.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the views or position of Liverpool Football Club.