Lyon leading the race for Liverpool target

Lyon are in pole position to sign Sochaux midfielder Ryad Boudebouz, according to L’Est Republicain.

The highly rated winger is widely tipped to leave Sochaux in January after deciding against extending his contract that expires in June 2013.

The 21-year-old is tracked by a number of Premiership sides and he even confirmed an interest from Liverpool in the summer.

However, it is French giants Lyon that are leading the race for the Algerian, with les Gones already preparing a January bid for the player.

Lyon officials have contacted Sochaux president Alexandre Lacombe, although no offers have been made.

Les Gones are hoping to wrap up the deal quickly in order to beat other interested clubs to the player’s signature.