Kop identify Dutch World Cup star

Hamburg's Eljero Elia has emerged as favourite to help ease the burden on Liverpool striker Fernando Torres.

Under pressure Anfield boss Roy Hodgson is desperate to bring in new players and spark a revival in the club's fortunes.

And the 24 year old, who played in the World Cup finals for Holland last summer, is high on a list of three or four players identified by Hodgson and Liverpool director of football strategy Damien Comolli as those who can make a difference.

Claims the club have made a £12 million bid are wide of the mark, with Hodgson having to sell before he can afford to make that sort of offer for a player.

Hodgson wants some support for Torres, and Elias fits the bill. Liverpool have monitored his progress for some time, and it seems he will be made available in the January transfer window.

Liverpool have also identified giant Ivory Coast international Lacina Traore, Chelsea's Daniel Sturridge and Ajax forward Luis Suarez as potential targets.

The new American owners have made clear they do not intend to spend their way out of trouble, so the manager will be encouraged to sell players before he brings in new signings, with Ryan Babel a likely candidate to make way.

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