Reds in Mertesacker link

Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly competing for the signing of the German international Per Mertesacker.

Liverpool and Arsenal are reportedly the main contenders to capture the Werder Bremen centre-back.

Both of the Premier League outfits are interested in bolstering their squad with a proven centre-back, and the Germany stalwart seems well-suited to withstand the rigours of the English top flight.

While Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson has indicated that he will look to bring in a striker in January, a poor defensive record at Anfield cannot be ignored.

And Arsenal boss Wenger has already confirmed he will look to bring in a centre-back should star defender Thomas Vermaelen fail to recover from a long-term injury in the next couple of weeks.

Highly-rated Werder Bremen man Mertesacker will likely be allowed a move away for a fee of £10m.

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