Liverpool are relying on a former Everton star to help them unearth talent in the Northeast.
Both Jordan Henderson and former Newcastle United striker Andy Carroll have left the Northeast for Liverpool.
The Sunday Sun says the well-respected Alex Smailes is their man in the Northeast, but it is former Everton midfielder Alan Harper who has the brief of watching players with a view to signing.
Liverpool have strengthened their scouting network since Damien Comolli's arrival as football director last summer.
