Liverpool look in pole position to snatch young Dutch star Memphis Depay from under the noses of arch-rivals Manchester United.

The 20million-rated PSV Eindhoven attacker Depay, who has been described by Southampton's Dutch boss Ronald Koeman as "the biggest talent in the Netherlands" starred for Holland in the World Cup in Brazil last summer under now-United boss Louis van Gaal.

The under-fire United manager believes he can win the race for Depay's signature. But Liverpool have done more homework than the Old Trafford giants.

Their scouts targeted the player more than two years ago and have been keeping a very close relationship with both him and his agent, Alex Kroes.

A delegation from Liverpool has visited PSV every month this season and spent a lot of time this week with Kroes, also watched the 21-year-old's last game in his presence.

Tottenham have also asked to be informed when the bidding starts, but according to friends the player is keen to join Liverpool.

Source: Daily Mirror