Liverpool to rival Everton for Witsel

Liverpool will offer stiff competition to Everton in the pursuit of Zenit St.Petersburg midfielder Axel Witsel. The Belgian has been tipped to leave the Russian giants over the summer after he stalled on talks over a contract extension.

The Toffees have made Witsel their priority target for the transfer window with coach Ronald Koeman looking to add more steel to his midfield ahead of the new season.

However, according to The Mirror, there may not be an easy route to the player with arch-rivals Liverpool also in the running to secure the player's services.

Jurgen Klopp's side are looking into a deal for the 27-year-old after missing out on Grzegorz Krychowiak, who opted to join Paris Saint-Germain from Sevilla.

The Reds have already secured the signings of Joel Matip, Lorius Karius, and Sadio Mane this summer, while winter arrival Marko Grujic will link up with the club following his loan return from Red Star Belgrade.