Liverpool renew interest in Tiago Ilori as Sporting Lisbon defender refuses to sign new contrac

19 Aug 2013 13:14

The Reds had a bid of £3million rejected for the Portuguese international earlier this summer, but are ready to step up their efforts again

In the hunt: Liverpool are keen to turn their attentions to Tiago Ilori

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Brendan Rodgers has renewed his interest in Sporting Lisbon's defender Tiago Ilori.

Rodgers shelved his interest when Sporting rejected Liverpool's £3million bid for Ilori, demanding around double that amount.

Now Ilori's refusal to sign a new deal with the Portuguese club has given Rodgers' fresh hope that a compromise deal can be brokered.

Liverpool were represented at Sporting's 5-1 home win over Arouca yesterday, although Ilori did not feature, and it is understood further discussions have been held between the clubs.

Strong competition: Aly Cissokho is set for a medical on Merseyside today

Dean Mouhtaropoulos

 

Meanwhile, French defender Aly Cissokho was due to have his medical on Merseyside today ahead of completing his season-long loan move from Valencia.

Rodgers wants competition for Jose Enrique and Liverpool have the option to sign the left-back permanently for around £4million next summer.