Liverpool join the race to sign Defour

Standard Liege midfielder Steven Defour is being tracked by a host of Premier Leeague clubs, with Liverpool and Real Madrid also joining the race to sign the playmaker.

The 21-year-old, who began his career with KV Mechelen before joining RC Genk, has also featured for his nation Belgium, and is a regular in the national squad.

Club captain Defour joined Liege from RC Genk in 2006, is well known for his playmaking ability and vision.

Coincidently, Real are considering Defour as an option should they fail to sign Xabi Alonso from Liverpool, who are also viewing him as a replacement for the Spaniard.

While, Roma’s Alberto Aquilani remains a target for Rafa Benitez, Defour is also very much on the radar for the Anfield club.

However, Standard have insisted that they will not be selling their prized asset but, Defour feels that is not the case.

“I have an agreement with Standard Liege that I could go to a top club, and Liverpool fit the bill,” said the 21-year-old.

His agent Paul Stefani confirms that Liverpool are keen on Defour.

“Steven’s name has been mentioned not only at Real Madrid, but also at Liverpool. They are looking at him too,” he told the Daily Mail.

“Normally he would stay for another year, but nobody could say no to clubs like those. And Liege would not stand in his way.”