Liverpool lead Arsenal in the race for Germany star

Liverpool are leading the race for Werder Bremen's World Cup star Per Mertesacker.

Mertesacker, the 26 year-old centre-back, is now on the Kop radar after director of football Damien Comolli made a personal check on him before Christmas. Bremen are prepared to sell the 26-year-old following their exit from the Champions League - but have told any interested clubs that the bidding will start at £10million.

Comolli watched Mertesacker in action as ­Werder suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Kaiserslautern on December 18 in their final Bundesliga game before the German winter break.

He recommended Liverpool should make a move for the Germany international.

Mertesacker had an outstanding World Cup as Germany knocked out England before losing to eventual champions Spain in the semi-finals.

And he fits the player profile Comolli gave new Liverpool owners New England Sports Ventures when they decided to appoint him following their takeover in October.

At 26, Mertesacker is yet to enjoy the peak years of his career and would maintain his market value. He's been with Bremen since moving from hometown club Hannover 96 in a ­£3million deal in 2006.

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