Liverpool FC will attempt to bring Sporting Lisbon defender Tiago Ilori to Anfield this summer.

The Reds have had the 20-year-old centre-back watched on a number of occasions and believe he has the qualities required to shine in the Premier League.

The Portuguese outfit are desperate to keep hold of Ilori, who has established himself as a first-team regular in recent months. However, their financial problems means they are under pressure to sell their prized assets.

London-born Ilori joined Sporting's Academy in 2006 and has represented Portugal at under-20 level. He's blessed with great pace and at 6ft 3ins is dominant in the air.

Liverpool have yet to submit a bid for Ilori, who has also attracted interest from Valencia. Ilori is viewed as one for the future rather than a direct replacement for retiring vice-captain Jamie Carragher.

There is no truth in speculation that the Reds are planning a move for Lyon's Croatian defender Dejan Lovren.

Source: Liverpool Echo