Liverpool are confident beating Arsenal for Swansea City defender Ashley Williams.The Sun says Brendan Rodgers' biggest battle could come in convincing Reds owners Fenway Sports Group to cough up £12million-plus for the Swansea skipper.

Williams is the Anfield chief's first choice to replace 35-year-old Jamie Carragher, who retires at the end of the season.

Welsh centre-back Williams, 28, played under Rodgers for two years at Swans - and is a boyhood Liverpool fan.

Arsenal are also in the hunt and had a £9m offer turned down in January.