Liverpool preparing transfer battle with Manchester United over both Nico Gaitan and Nathaniel Clyne

Argentine Gaitan has been a long-term target for United but is now on the Reds radar while Brendan Rodgers wants Clyne to replace Glen Johnson

Double dip: The Reds are keen on Nathaniel Clyne and Nicolas Gaitan

Liverpool are prepared to go head-to-head with Manchester United for Benfica star Nicolas Gaitan and England's Nathaniel Clyne.
Reds boss Brendan Rodgers has been tracking Gaitan for months and feels the Argentina winger, who replaced Angel Di Maria at Benfica when he joined Real Madrid, could boost his attacking options.
Rodgers is also looking for a right-back with Glen Johnson leaving next month and has followed Clyne’s progress at Southampton for some time.
At 24, the England defender fits the profile of player Liverpool owners FSG want and he has just a year left on his deal at St Mary’s.



However Clyne recently hinted he may be prepared to stay with Saints after Ronald Koeman’s side finished seventh this season.

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Big money: Clyne has shone at Southampton in recent seasons

Rodgers would face stiff competition from United if Clyne did choose to move this summer and they have more money and can offer Champions League football next season.
United have also been following Gaitan for over a year, although they have yet to turn their interest into a firm bid.
Rodgers would be pushed to buy both with his limited transfer kitty this summer and Gaitan’s buy-out clause at Benfica is £25million.
In pictures - Liverpool transfer targets: