Liverpool and Everton Battle for Lazio Midfielder Ogenyi Onazi

Liverpool are battling Merseyside rivals Everton to land Lazio youngster Ogenyi Onazi.

According to the Express, the Lazio midfielder has attracted interest from the Premier League clubs after putting in some impressive performances for the Serie A club after joining them in 2011.

The Nigerian midfielder could be set for a move to England over the summer, after the Merseyside rivals rekindled their interest in the player which began during the 2014 January transfer window.

It is claimed that the player's agent is set to fly in to hold talks with the Italian side, which may result in the player departing Italy for England. Southampton are also said to be interested in signing the midfielder.

Late last year, Onazi had spoken about a move to the Premier League, and how he would jump if given a chance. He also had praise for Liverpool and mentioned that he could see himself playing for the Anfield club.

"I would jump at the chance to play in the Premier League," Onazi said, as quoted in the Express.

"Liverpool? They are a huge team and are attractive to any footballer. I could see myself playing for them."

However, it seems like the 21-year-old midfielder has changed his stance lately, and has confirmed that he has no intention of leaving the Rome club and wants to honour his contract with the club.

"I have no intention of leaving Lazio. I have a contract with the club and I want to respect it. Did not want to talk about the negotiations since they are totally focused on Lazio," the Nigerian international added.

Meanwhile, Everton are on the verge of announcing their second signing of the summer, after Bosnia-Herzegovina's Muhamed Besic joined the club's pre-season tour of Thailand.

Toffees boss Roberto Martinez is pleased to have the player with the squad, and feels that even though he will not be playing, it will be good for Besic to meet the other players and get back to fitness for the upcoming season.

"The next few days will allow Mo to meet the players," Martinez said, as quoted in the Guardian.

"But more importantly it is an opportunity for him to get into optimum condition ahead of the new season," the Spaniard added.