2) William Carvalho (Sporting Lisbon)
In defensive midfield, Liverpool are ready to enter the running to sign Sporting Lisobon star and Arsenal target William Carvalho. The Portuguese international has looked like one of the best young players in Europe in recent times and this has seen plenty of top clubs show an interest in him. Chelsea and Manchester United are also believed to be keeping an eye on his situation, but Liverpool will hope to sign him for around £24m ahead of their rivals, with Rodgers in need of a more commanding midfield partner to play alongside Steven Gerrard and protect the back four.