Liverpool are weighing-up a move for Arsenal defender Thomas Vermaelen, but will be forced to rival financial heavyweights Manchester United and Barcelona.

The Arsenal captain has frequently been linked with a move away from the Emirates, and has piqued the interest of a number of Europe's elite.

Reports claim Liverpool boss Brendan Rodgers is looking to quickly follow up his impending £20m capture of Dejan Lovren with Vermaelen.

The Arsenal man commands a significant £70,000 per-week wages, and is likely to opt for a club capable of matching or even surpassing that total.

From this perspective United could pose the main danger for Rodgers' side.

Furthermore, Louis Van Gaal's need to bolster his defensive options far outweighs Liverpool's.

Lovren, Daniel Agger, Mamadou Sakho and Martin Skrtel are all capable defenders and have experience in the cut throat Premier League.

Liverpool will also have to fend-off interest from Barcelona if they want to land the 28-year-old Belgian.

Source: Daily Express