Liverpool are close to finding a naming rights partner for their proposed stadium.

The Mirror says Liverpool have narrowed the search for a stadium naming-rights partner down to just three global companies.

And that could see the Anfield club finally make a decision over their ground by the end of the year - with a new state-of-the-art 70,000-seat arena the likely outcome.

The club has been given another extension over planning consents by the local council, who are keen to work in partnership to develop the area.

That has offered breathing space, as owners Fenway Sports examine the financial implications of the two options open to them - redeveloping Anfield, or building a new stadium.

The latter is only viable if Liverpool can find a naming-rights partner who are prepared to pay at least the equal of Arsenal's record-breaking deal at the Emirates, which was worth around £150million.