Reds target shock move for Algerian star

Liverpool are being linked with a shock move for Algerian defender Madjid Bougherra.

The Rangers centre back's agent has stoked the fire over a possible exit from the Gers, with Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez named as the man trying to sign the 27-year-old.

Bougherra, who has just added the SPL title to his list of trophies, first came to Britain on loan at Crewe Alexandra before signing for Sheffield Wednesday from Gueugnon in France.

After a season at the Owls, Bougherra got his chance in the Premier League with a £2.5 million move to Charlton Athletic. After a year and a half at the Valley, a move to Scotland followed.

The opportunity to play for France at junior level arose, but Bougherra decided to go for the country of his birth. 40 caps later, the defender is set to star in the World Cup against England.

The Daily Mail reports that Spaniard Benitez is interested in a bargain swoop for Bougherra, proving the point with quotes from his agent Farid Raayad.

"There's serious interest from three clubs and Liverpool's is the strongest, but it depends on the future of Benitez."

The other clubs believed to be interested are Greek side Panathinaikos and Turkish giants Fenerbahce.

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