Liverpool's search to replace John Arne Riise looks to have stepped up a gear or two if reports in Italy are to be believed.

Claims by Italian newspaper Tuttosport are that The Reds have beaten off Juventus for the signature of highly-rated Udinese fullback Andrea Dossena.

Reports from some websites suggest his agent Federico Pastorello has spent the past few days in England negotiating terms for the 26-year-old, who recently won his first cap for Italy.

Liverpool may have to pay up to £8m for the young Italian left back who began his career at Hellas Verona F.C. as a youth player before playing four seasons in their senior squad.