Liverpool and Chelsea in for Basinovic

Liverpool and Chelsea are reportedly set to battle for Palermo midfielder Armin Bacinovic.

The Slovenian midfielder has been in fine form for Palermo since joining the Serie A side in August, and has attracted interest from both various clubs across Europe - with Liverpool and Chelsea thought to be frontrunners for his signature.

It was reported last week that Liverpool were plotting a January bid for the Slovenian - who reportedly has a buyout clause in his contract of €12 million - but, according to Sportal, Chelsea have also emerged as contenders for the highly-rated 21-year-old.

However, Roy Hodgson and Carlo Ancelotti may have to put their interest on hold after Bačinovič's agent revealed his client needs to gain more experience in Italy.

Amir Ruznic told TMW: "Armin, in a few years, will certainly be ready for Liverpool or Chelsea, but now I know nothing.

"Just yesterday I spoke to someone asking about these rumours, of which I am not aware of. Certainly within a year, he will be a player ready for a top club."

This could pave the way for a summer move to either Anfield or Stamford Bridge for the former Maribor ace, who would fit with Liverpool owners NESV's ethos of bringing exciting young talent to the club.

However, Liverpool will face stiff competition for Bacinovic with Chelsea's renowned financial clout making them slight favourites to win the race for the Slovenia international.

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