Liverpool chase Maduro

Rafa Benitez is considering a January transfer move for Ajax's star central defender Hedwiges Maduro. Benitez is looking for a long-term replacement for Sami Hyypia; and Maduro is top of his list.

The player is a versatile one, and is capable of playing in a both central defence, right back or central midfield, whilst playing for Ajax he normally plays in central defence.

Maduro took part in the 2007 UEFA European Under-21 Football Championship in the Netherlands which Holland later went on to win, and Maduro is slowly becoming a regular in the Dutch first XI.

The 22-year-old defender is valued in the region of around £10m, and Liverpool are believed to have been recommended Maduro by his friend Ryan Babel.