Liverpool have intensified their interest in Hellas Verona midfielder Jorginho as Brendan Rodgers looks to lighten the load on captain Steven Gerrard.

The Reds skipper will miss the busy Christmas period after picking up a hamstring injury, and despite the prognosis being good, Rodgers is keen not to rush him back.

The club have been tracking exciting midfielder Jorginho since the start of the season - and Liverpool are now looking to do business, in the hope he can hit the ground running when the transfer window re-opens.

Arsenal and Manchester United are also following the 21-year-old, who has emerged as the star of Serie A this term, with a host of stunning displays.

Indeed, the midfielder has impressed so much he is in with a shout of representing Italy at the World Cup, having recently ruled out playing for his home nation Brazil.

Any deal would likely be in the region of £15million, but Jorginho could hit the ground running at Anfield, and Rodgers wants a midfielder who can settle quickly, to ease the burden on Gerrard.

A strong and energetic midfielder with an eye for goal, Jorginho has made no secret of his desire to play in the Premier League.

Source: Metro