Liverpool have joined the battle for Real Madrid midfielder Nuri Sahin.

And Brendan Rodgers' close relationship with Jose Mourinho could give the Anfield club an edge over Arsenal and Tottenham in negotiations.

Marca says Liverpool want to take the Turkey international on a season-long loan, which could suit all parties.

Sahin showed reluctance to join Spurs when Andre Villas-Boas wanted him as part of a proposed deal to sell Luka Modric to the Spanish champions.

It had been claimed that Arsenal were favourites to sign him in recent days, but Mourinho could convince the 23-year-old that a year with Rodgers would benefit his development.