Reds join Sissoko race

Moussa Sissoko's agent claims Liverpool have held talks about snapping up the Toulouse midfielder.

The France international has expressed his desire to move on this summer and there's a battle growing for his signature.

The 21-year-old was wanted by the Reds four years ago but opted to stay with the Ligue One outfit and signed his first professional contract.

Since then Sissoko, who has been compared to Patrick Vieira, has blossomed with Lyon, Newcastle and Inter Milan also apparently keen to secure his services.

Toulouse are prepared to sell but are holding out for a fee of around £13million.

"The link with Lyon is serious, but it is not the only one," said his agent Bacary Sanogo.

"There are also negotiations with Liverpool, Newcastle and Inter. Things should seriously move next week.

"His priority is a club with a major sporting project."

Meanwhile, Lille have warned potential suitors off highly-rated forward Eden Hazard.

The 20-year-old has long since been linked with a move to Anfield but the French champions are determined to keep hold of him this summer.

"Eden's not for sale," said Lille general manager Frederic Paquet.

"We can't let one of our best players leave.

"He'll be with us next season."

Similarly, Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger has vowed to do everything he can to retain defender Gael Clichy.

Liverpool are in the market for a left-back and the Frenchman, who only has a year remaining on his contract, fits the bill.

The Reds have competition from Roma but Wenger is still hoping to persuade the 25-year-old to pen a new deal to remain at the Emirates.

"We have started talks with Gael and want him to stay," Wenger said.

Liverpool Reserves will play a friendly against Waterford United on Wednesday, July 20 (7.45pm).

It will be part of a two-match tour with the Reds also facing Bray Wanderers on July 18.

Source: Liverpool Echo

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