posted on Dec, 30 2004 @ 07:07 AM
Rumours are rife in France that Liverpool are stepping up their interest in Manchester City striker Nicolas Anelka.
The former Arsenal attacker has already had a spell at Anfield during a loan stint at the club and influential captain Steven Gerrard has intimated
that he would love the 25-year-old to arrive on Merseyside. The Frenchman scored four goals in 20 games for The Reds.
Although Fernando Morientes remains a top target, the competition for the Real Madrid forward is more intense and, despite encouraging noises coming
from the Spaniard's camp, Anelka could turn out to be the first January capture by Rafa Benitez.
According to L'Equipe, the City star has already been in Liverpool discussing a three-and-a-half year contract with Benitez's side.
Anelka's wage demands would appear unlikely to present a problem and, of course, he is eligible to play in the UEFA Champions League. The Reds face
Bayer Leverkusen in the knockout stages of the competition.
Skysports