Liverpool are to make a formal move for Sunderland goalkeeper Simon Mignolet.

The Mail on Sunday says Pepe Reina has been linked with a move back to his first club Barcelona and Belgian international Mignolet would be a cheaper replacement at £7million that Stoke's impressive Asmir Begovic who is valued at £12million.

Reina has insisted speculation about his future is not a distraction but would only say he is committed to Liverpool "right now".

That has alarm bells ringing at Anfield and a move for Mignolet is now being discussed.