Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers has identified Joleon Lescott as the ideal man to replace Jamie Carragher in the heart of the Reds defence.
After 738 games Carragher decided to call time on his playing career and Rodgers has been alerted to the availability of Lescott as a replacement, with the England man falling down the pecking order at Manchester City.
The 30-year-old centre back has found games hard to come by at the Etihad following the arrival of Matija Nastasic and is unlikely to opt to stay and fight for his place in a World Cup year.
Aston Villa have also been credited with an interest in the former Wolves and Everton man, but while the wrath of Toffees fans may cross his mind, Lescott is unlikely to have been impressed by Villa’s dalliance with relegation last year.
Before the departure of Roberto Mancini, City were said to be willing to listen to offers of around £4 million for Lescott, and with the player himself desperate for first team action he is reported to be willing to take a pay cut in order to facilitate a move.
However, should the Reds fail in a bid for Lescott, Rodgers is also said to be interested in taking his Citizens counterpart Kolo Toure to Anfield.
While Lescott is the preferred choice, Toure also offers the experience that Rodgers craves and the Ivorian is edging closer to the Etihad exit.
Lescott’s place in City’s defensive hierarchy was demonstrated by his 31 appearances this term, but Toure was given just 17 opportunities to pull on the sky blue jersey and will be keen to secure more game time elsewhere.
Whether Lescott or Toure arrive at Anfield remains to be seen, but at 25/1 to win the Premier League for the first time, Liverpool will be looking bolster their defensive ranks come what may.
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