Houllier still keen on Yakin

The Reds manager was in attendance last Friday when a Yakin-inspired Basle fought from two-goals down to secure a share of the spoils against deadly rivals Grasshoppers of Zurich. Yakin was on the score-sheet and certainly made the right impression in the presence of a potential suitor.

The Swiss international midfielder, who masterminded the Reds Champions League downfall when the two sides drew 3-3 in November, is available for just £750,000.

If the pursuit of both Damien Duff and Harry Kewell proves to be as difficult as one would expect, Houllier may turn to the 26-year-old schemer as a considerably cheaper alternative. A move for Yakin would also free valuable funds in the chase for Djibril Cisse.