Rafa sets sights on Pienaar

Liverpool are ready to risk the wrath of neighbours Everton with a move for influential midfielder Steven Pienaar.

The skilful South African has emerged as one of the best players in the Premier League but his contract runs out in 14 months and Everton are yet to tie him down to a new deal.

Sportsmail revealed in January that Tottenham and Chelsea were interested in the 28-year-old, valued at about £10million.

Now Liverpool have emerged as strong admirers, despite Everton's reluctance to sell to their fiercest rivals. The Anfield club have been encouraged by news of the unresolved contract talks, although Everton are preparing a new offer that would put Pienaar on a par with their top earners at about £50,000 per week.

Pienaar's agent Ivan Modia said: 'Steven's future will be sorted before the World Cup.'

Everton manager David Moyes warned: 'Pienaar is at a club that really suits him and sometimes a player has to decide what is best for him. Everton has been good for Steven. If anybody wanted to leave, they'd be poorer for it.'

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