Atletico Madrid ace Diego Forlan is a top target for Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez.

The People says Benitez has also asked about another ex-United striker, Ruud van Nistelrooy.

But Atletico Madrid raider Forlan, 30, is his first choice for a January swoop, although Benitez would have to stump up around £15million.

Forlan is desperate to leave his club, who are struggling near the foot of La Liga and also out of the Champions League.

The Uruguay international was not a resounding success during two years at Old Trafford but since going to Spain has been prolific for Villarreal and Atletico, shooting both clubs into the Champions League.

Forlan joined Atletico when Fernando Torres left them for Liverpool in 2007, but he could end up partnering the Spain international at Anfield.