Liverpool monitoring Martinez

Liverpool are considering a move for highly-rated Real Sociedad defender Inigo Martinez.

Kenny Dalglish wants to strengthen his back line and Martinez, 20, has been watched several times by the Anfield club's scouts.

The Reds will have to come up with an offer in the region of £20million to persuade Real Sociedad to sell Martinez, reports the People.

He has a release clause believed to be £28million in his contract, but the Basque side may accept a deal worth £17million and a Liverpool player.

But Dalglish faces competition for the signing of Martinez, as both Barcelona and Real Madrid are thought to be keeping tabs on the defender.

The versatility of the youngster is one of his key talents and he has scored twice when playing in midfield this season, while he has also impressed filling in at left-back.

Liverpool, who beat QPR 1-0 yesterday at Anfield thanks to a winning goal by Uruguayan striker Luis Suarez, are also believed to be tracking Bologna playmaker Gaston Ramirez.

Source: Metro

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.