Liverpool, Everton to fight it out for Witsel

Liverpool are set to battle it out with Everton for the signature of Zenit St.Peterburg midfielder Axel Witsel. The Belgian international was tipped to join Juventus over the summer, before the move fell through at the final minute.

Italian source Calciomercato says the Old Lady have agreed terms over a free transfer with the player next summer, but Zenit will do their best to cash in on his services in the New Year.

It is added that Everton are ready to reignite their interest in the former Benfica man, but they will competition from local rivals Liverpool.

Witsel has just 10 months left on his deal, and this has urged Zenit to accept a cut-price fee in January rather than losing him for nothing at the end of the season.

The 27-year-old has appeared in over 150 games for Zenit since arriving from Benfica in the summer of 2012.