Liverpool Readying Bid to Sign Barcelona Midfielder Alex Song as Lucas Replacement

Liverpool are planning a shock move in signing Manchester United summer target Alex Song, according to the Express.

The Cameroon international left Arsenal and completed his move to Barcelona in 2012. However, the 26-year-old has seen his first team appearances being limited and lack of playing time has seen him being linked away from the Catalan club.

United for long have maintained their interest in bringing Song to Old Trafford in the ongoing transfer window. In addition to this, Rafael Benitez's Napoli are also keen on giving the former Gunners midfielder an escape route.

Song's services are no longer required at Camp Nou and Barcelona's new manager Luis Enrique is now looking to offload him. This has alerted several clubs across Europe, who are willing to sign the La Liga player this summer.

The Red Devils have long been linked with a move in signing Juventus star Arturo Vidal. A failure to land the Chilean international will see Louis van Gaal turn his attentions elsewhere and Song is in the list of players as potential alternatives to Vidal.

Song is also believed to be interested in joining United, if they make an approach for his services. However, Liverpool have now joined the race in signing Barcelona midfielder.

The Independent reports the Merseyside club are set to lose their midfielder Lucas Leiva to Napoli as the Brazilian midfielder is set to reunite with his former manager at Stadio San Paolo.

With Lucas set to leave Anfield, Brendan Rodgers now needs to bring in a replacement. The former Swansea City boss has set his sights on Song, who is also a target for United and Napoli.

If Lucas joins Napoli, Benitez is likely to end his side's interest in Song. This could make way for Liverpool battle with United for the signature of the former Arsenal man. Should the Red Devils seal a move for Vidal, Song will have Liverpool as the only potential suitor.