Liverpool to hijack move for Belgian starlet

Liverpool are ready to hijack Arsenal's potential move for Belgian playmaker Eden Hazard.

According to Fanatix.com, the Merseyside club are eyeing one more attacking player and have already made an enquiry for Barcelona winger Ibrahim Afellay.

However, it is unclear how likely it will be to land the Dutchman as he was only signed by the Catalans in January. Therefore, Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has turned his attentions to 20-year-old Hazard who is also a target for Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger.

The Frenchman even admitted in January that the club were tracking him. He said: "We follow him. And personally I think he's a real talent and he's good enough to play for Arsenal, yes.

"In the offensive department we have many players. At the end of the season we'll have a look at the situation but at the moment it's completely ruled out."

The Lille midfielder has attracted the interest of a host of top European clubs following a season in which he was instrumental in his club's first league title since 1954.

Arsenal though, remain favourites to sign Hazard thanks to their close ties with Lille built during their successful negotiations over £10.9m forward Gervinho.

The Gunners are reportedly willing to meet the £20m asking price but will only make an offer with the proceeds of any possible sale from Samir Nasri or Cesc Fabregas.

This has given Liverpool a window of opportunity to make a move for the Belgian starlet, although they must also off-load players before making an official bid.

A number of players are expected to leave the Reds in the coming weeks with Alberto Aquilani, Milan Jovanovic, David N'Gog and Joe Cole all reported to be on the verge of moves.

It is thought the departure of that quartet will free up enough space on the wage bill and generate enough transfer money to fund a move for Hazard.

Source: Sportsvibe.co.uk

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