Jones And Dann In Demand

Skysports.com understands Arsenal and Liverpool are going head-to-head for defensive duo Phil Jones and Scott Dann.

Blackburn's versatile youngster Jones and Birmingham centre-back Dann are both thought to be top targets for the Gunners and Reds as they look to bolster their defensive options this summer.

Emirates chief Arsene Wenger has made a new central defender one of his top priorities, while Anfield boss Kenny Dalglish is looking to bolster his squad as he seeks to get the side back in the top four.

Jones, who has also been employed in midfield for Rovers, is thought to be both Arsenal and Liverpool's number one target.

The North London club has held a long-term interest in the England Under-21 international and had a bid rejected for Jones last summer.

The Gunners are thought to have made new enquiries for Jones, but Liverpool is ready to rival their Premier League counterparts for his signature.

Jones fits in with Liverpool's policy under new manager Kenny Dalglish and owners Fenway Sports Group to pursue young and preferably British talent.

However, both sides are also keen on dominant defender Dann and are ready to move for the 24-year-old following Birmingham's relegation.

Dann has established himself as one of the best young defenders in the country during the last two seasons and his absence in the heart of the Blues defence for the second half of last season through injury contributed to the club's eventual relegation.

The 6ft 2in Dann, who been likened to Alan Hansen and Tony Adams, is believed to be keen to stay in the Premier League and the lifelong Liverpool fan would jump at the chance of a move to Anfield if his boyhood heroes firmed up their interest.

With Jones valued in the region of £16million and Blackburn reluctant to lose the 19-year-old, Dann could find himself the preferred option of both Liverpool and Arsenal as he could represent better value for money option at £10million.