Liverpool plot January raid for Serie A star

Liverpool are reportedly preparing a January move for Empoli’s attacking ace Riccardo Saponara.

The Premier League outfit, who suffered their first defeat under new boss Jurgen Klopp against Crystal Palace on Saturday at Anfield, have been closely scouting the Italy midfielder ahead of the New Year transfer window.

The 23-year-old, who is a former Under-21 international, has already scored four and assisted three goals for the Serie A side in his nine league appearances so far this season.

However local reports in his native country suggest Saponara is keen on staying at Empoli until at least the end of the season as he wishes to break into the Italy national team ahead of the 2016 UEFA European Championships next summer.