Liverpool target wanted by Roma

Roma are ready to swoop for Liverpool target Fernando Amorebieta, according to reports in Spain.

The Italian side, who are fifth in the Serie A table, are looking to make a serious title assault next term, and their manager Zdenek Zeman wants to recruit a top-class centre-back.

Amorebieta, who came through the ranks at Athletic Bilbao, is highly-rated in Spain. His reputation across the continent grew as he featured 14 times during Athletic's run to the Europa League final last season.

The 27-year-old's deal at the Basque club expires in 2014, and although he has entered renewal talks, they are believed to have hit a hitch.

And according to Spanish newspaper AS, news of this has alerted Roma, who are ready to pounce if the Venezuela international rejects a new contract.