Liverpool set sights on Stephen Ireland

Stephen Ireland is a target for Liverpool.

Ireland, the City fans' player of the year last season, has suffered a wretched dip in form under Mark Hughes and Roberto Mancini.

Manchester United were also monitoring Ireland's situation at Eastlands, but have been ­deterred by the Irishman's failure to maintain his progress at City.

They were also aware that City were unlikely to contemplate agreeing a transfer deal with their bitter rivals.

That paved the way for Liverpool to move in with a bid at the end of the season.

One of Ireland's best performances this season was when he scored at Anfield in a 2-2 draw. And Liverpool have been made aware that Mancini would not block Ireland's departure.

Benitez was hoping to get the go-ahead to make an opening offer of £8million.

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