Liverpool must bid £25m for teenage star

Liverpool target Romelu Lukaku appears set for England after admitting the Barclays Premier League is a more likely destination than Spain.

The Belgian international striker has been earning rave reviews for his Anderlecht performances in the Pro League, and Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish is set to challenge the cream of Europe for the player's signature.

Damien Comolli has earmarked the player as a potential Anfield star of the future, and the People claimed that the Liverpool director of football strategy made contact over a potential move just over a week ago.

Chelsea, Arsenal and Real Madrid are also thought to be interested in the player dubbed 'the next Didier Drogba', and a transfer battle could commence immediately for one of the hottest talents in European and world football.

"Chelsea and Arsenal tried to sign me when I was 13, 14," Lukaku told Goal.com UK.

"I have never hidden it, but it is not because Chelsea is my favourite team that I have to go there. There is also Manchester United, Arsenal, Liverpool and Manchester City. These big five are very interesting."

"I admire Jose Mourinho and Real Madrid is a great club, but I see England as more likely than Spain."

Liverpool originally presented an offer that would reach €23 million including add-on payments for appearances at club and international level, according to reports. It is now understood that the Belgian champions want a fee in the region of £25 million.

An attacking foil for Fernando Torres is thought to be the priority for the Merseysiders, and Liverpool have money to spend following the arrival of NESV as the new owners at the end of the summer.

Whether they wish to pay such a high figure on one individual remains to be seen, but their interest in Lukaku seems clear and a decision may have to be made quickly if Liverpool wish to win the race for the player.

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