Reds in for Essien

According to reports the Liverpool boss watched the 21-year-old Ghanaian midfielder in action for Bastia on Monday night and is prepared to loan him back to the French side for next season should they accept the £3.5 offer.

Houllier faces stiff competition for his signature from Marseilles and Lyon, while Everton boss David Moyes was also at the game to watch Essien.