Rafa Benitez is hoping to pip Sir Alex Ferguson to two potential new signings. The first target is Nigerian Osaze Peter Odemwingie (Daily Mail) who is interesting Liverpool after a good display in the recent Africa Cup of Nations.

The Lokomotiv Moscow attacker – who was actually born in Uzbekistan – was said to have impressed Anfield scouts who were watching his every move in Ghana until Nigeria crashed out to the host nation in the quarter-finals.

Manchester United
are also said to have sent representatives to run the rule over the 26-year-old former Lille man.

β€˜It remains to be seen which club is winning the race for these two talents.’


The second target for the arch rivals is Atletic Bilbao defender Fernando Amorebieta (AS). Again, scouts from both clubs, as well as Newcastle United, have been watching the 22-year-old who has been battling to help keep the Basque club in La Liga.

Amorebieta is quoted as saying: "I'm very happy here and also that people are noticing me. It's nice to know people are interested in you." It remains to be seen which club is winning the race for these two talents.