Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez wants to prise Stephen Pienaar away from Everton in a shock move. The Daily Mail says the skilful South African has emerged as one of the best players in the Premier League but his contract runs out in 14 months and Everton are yet to tie him down to a new deal.

Now Liverpool have emerged as strong admirers, despite Everton's reluctance to sell to their fiercest rivals. The Anfield club have been encouraged by news of the unresolved contract talks, although Everton are preparing a new offer that would put Pienaar on a par with their top earners at about £50,000 per week.

Pienaar's agent Ivan Modia said: "Steven's future will be sorted before the World Cup."