Fulham full-back Steve Finnan will be the target of an attempt by Liverpool to lure him the to Merseyside over the summer as part of Gérard Houllier's radical overhaul of the squad with the aim of mounting a more credible title challenge next season.
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| Fulham defender Steve Finnan |
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The 26-year-old Republic of Ireland international, signed by Kevin Keegan for £600,000 from Notts County five years ago, is likely to cost about £4m, having impressed Houllier during his time with the Londoners, for whom he boasts 202 appearances. Fulham may be keen to retain his services but they are unlikely to resist such a bid.
The move for Finnan, an attack-minded defender to match the bite offered by John Arne Riise on the opposite flank, will reflect the change in Houllier's strategy and fit in with his attempt to mould Liverpool into a more forward-thinking outfit.
Boss Gerard Houllier has targeted the Republic of Ireland star to fill a position which has caused him difficulties throughout the season.
He desperately needs cover for Jamie Carragher, after a succession of problems in filling the slot.
German international Markus Babbel, a star in 2000-01, has failed to make the expected full recovery from a debilitating virus.
England Under-21 defender Stephen Wright was sold to Sunderland, while Portugal's Abel Xavier is on loan to Turkish giants Galatasaray for the season and unlikely to return to Anfield.
Vegard Heggem, who has hardly featured for the past two campaigns, is out of contract in the summer and will leave on a Bosman.
Former Notts County ace Finnan, 26, has been one of the outstanding performers for Jean Tigana's side since their return to the Premiership nearly two years ago. He also enjoyed a successful World Cup.