Liverpool are reportedly preparing a move for Atlanta midfielder Franck Kessie.
Kessie spent the previous season on loan at Cesena but has impressed since returning to the Serie A club, with five goals and an assist in 13 outings to date.
He has already attracted interest from Juventus and Chelsea but reports in Italy claim that the Reds are preparing to steal a march on their respective rivals.
Corriere dello Sport claim that the Anfield officials have regularly sent scouts to observe the 19-year-old in action with a view to a £22.5 million switch
But Ivory Coast international Kessie recently revealed his admiration for the Premier League but admitted that he would prefer to join Manchester United.
“My idols are Yaya Toure and Essien. I was told that I have to work very hard to reach a big level,” he told Sky Italia.
“Now I want to learn Italian tactics but in the future, I like the Premier League. I’d like to play for Manchester United.
“I don’t know if [Jose] Mourinho will be there, but Manchester United has always been my favourite team.”