Lyon leading Sissoko race

LIVERPOOL are claimed to be in the hunt for French midfielder Moussa Sissoko - as speculation mounts about the future of Raul Meireles.

Toulouse player Sissoko is a target for Kenny Dalglish's men according to the 21-year-old's agent but the manager faces stiff competition from a host of other European clubs.

Lyon are believed to be leading the race with Inter Milan and Newcastle United also showing interest in the French international who is valued by his club at around £15million.

"The link with Lyon is serious, but it is not the only one," said Bacary Sanogo, the player's agent.

"There are also negotiations with Liverpool, Newcastle and Inter. Things should seriously move next week. His priority is a club with a major sporting project, but it will not pose a problem to Moussa (to remain with Toulouse)."

Toulouse are said to be demanding a fee of £15m for Sissoko.

Portugal international Meireles could find his days at Anfield numbered with suggestions he has been placed on the transfer list.

It is believed Meireles accepted a relatively low wage upon his arrival from Porto last summer, such was his desire to play in the Premier League, but should he perform well in his first season then those terms would be reviewed and the 28-year-old would be rewarded with an improved deal.

Despite five goals and 32 league appearances, it has been claimed the player and Liverpool have not been able to find common ground on a fresh contract and Meireles has now been put up for sale with Juventus immediately linked as potential suitors.

Meanwhile, Liverpool defender Fabio Aurelio is backing Brazil to shine in the Copa America.

Mano Menezes' side have failed to impress in their warm-up games but the Liverpool left-back is excited about his nation's chances of securing a third successive South American crown.

"The Copa America is very important for all the national teams but especially for Brazil as we won't have any qualifying games for the next World Cup because we are hosts," Aurelio said.

"It will be a great opportunity to see how the team is faring. This is a new project now.

"Most of the players are very young but very talented as well.

"It promises to be a great side for the next World Cup so I think this is why we are also expecting good results from the Copa America. It will be the first big test for this new generation for Brazil.

"They have plenty of quality players and some of them already played for Brazil in the last World Cup.

"I think the new coach is very good so we are very excited about the future of the national team."

Aurelio will be hoping Liverpool team-mate and close friend Lucas Leiva can help Brazil get their campaign off to a flying start when they face Venezuela on July 3.

Source: Liverpool Daily Post

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