Liverpool join chase for Turkish winger

IMScouting sources understand that Liverpool and Espanyol have registered their interest in 21 year-old left-sided midfielder Caner Erkin.

The Turkish international has spent the season on loan at Turkish giants Galatasaray from his parent club CSKA Moscow. Erkin has performed well in Turkey, alerting both Liverpool and Spanish club Espanyol who have been monitoring him closely.

Erkin has spent three seasons at CSKA Moscow, but the quick and technically gifted midfielder was allowed to go to Galatasaray on loan with a view to a permanent move.  However, transfer negotiations between CSKA Moscow and Galatasaray appear to be stalling and so Liverpool and Espanyol are considering taking advantage of the Turkish side's hesitancy.

Erkin would provide a relatively inexpensive addition to Rafa Benitez's squad, as it is believed he would be available from CSKA Moscow for around 3-4 million Euros. 

With Albert Rieira's Liverpool career all but over, there could well be room for a midfielder.

Meanwhile, Spanish side Espanyol sit comfortably in mid-table in La Liga.  However, they have a lack of left-sided attacking options and with Javi Marquez having been linked to several clubs including Tottenham, a move for Erkin could be on the cards.

Erkin already has seven international caps for Turkey to his name. 

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