Kop are in need of Luk

Liverpool are pressing ahead with a £20 million swoop for Belgian strike sensation Romelu Lukaku - despite Roy Hodgson leaving the club.

Kop talent-hunter Damien Comolli is understood to have approached Anderlecht about the 17-year-old striker who already has eight caps for his country.

The 6ft 3 powerhouse hit 15 goals in 33 league games for Anderlecht last season despite starting on the bench for 12 of his appearances.

His performances for the Belgian club have attracted scouts from all of Europe's top clubs including both Manchester clubs, Arsenal, Chelsea and Spurs as well as the giants from Spain and Italy.

But it's Liverpool who are pulling out all the stops to sign him - with a £15 million initial fee the starting point rising to more than £20 million with performance-realted add-ons.

That's big money for Liverpool's new owner John Henry, head of the Fenway Sports Group, but the Anfield hierarchy recognise they have to start revamping their squad - and fast.

That's why Comolli has been busy identifying the brightest young stars in Europe and Lukaku now tops his list after Liverpool were told they have little chance of signing his international teammate Eden Hazard from Lille.

Belgian winger Hazard, 19, is wanted by Alex Ferguson as well as Jose Mourinho and sources in France say he's likely to head for United or Real Madrid rather than risk a move to a club in transition.

Another player on Liverpool's radar is Valencia's Pablo Hernandez.

Hotline revealed back in October that the Spanish midfielder was a target and the Anfield club have now enquired about his availability.

Despite David Silva's exit to Manchester City in the summer, 25-year-old Hernandez has failed to pin down a regular starting place and has admitted he will look for a move if coach Unai Emeri doesn't give him a decent run.

Tottenham have also expressed an interest in the £15 million rated star.

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