Hodgson targets Hamburg hotshot

Liverpool are ready to make a move for Hamburg hotshot Eljero Elia as they bid to turn their season around.

Elia, 23, is regarded as one of the best forwards in the Bundesliga and has been attracting interest from a number of top clubs across Europe.

Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson is keen to strengthen his squad in January and knows he needs more firepower following their shock home defeat against Wolves.

Elia has a proven track record for Hamburg and has also broken into the Holland side.

Reports in Holland state that Liverpool's director of football strategy Damien Comolli has already made contact with Hamburg and is hoping to negotiate a deal next month.

The deal could hinge on Ryan Babel being sold in the January transfer window as Elia would be a natural replacement for his compatriot.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.