Liverpool set to beat Manchester United in race for Memphis Depay

Liverpool have surged ahead of Manchester United in the race for PSV Eindhoven forward Memphis Depay, according to the Mirror.

The Red Devils were reportedly favourites for his signature but Liverpool have taken the reins in their own hands after hitting a roadblock in securing the signatures of Raheem Sterling and Jordan Henderson to long term contracts.

Dubbed "the biggest talent in the Netherlands" by Southampton manager Ronald Koeman, Depay has a plethora of options in front of him, including the likes of Tottenham, who are willing to break the bank to compete for a top four spot next season. Mauricio Pochettino has shown that he can work miracles with youngsters and the 21-year-old would do well to work under his watchful eye should he choose to move to the Premier League.

However, Brendan Rodgers is leaving no stone unturned in sealing a deal with the player in the summer. The former Swansea manager lost Luis Suarez last season and spent more than £100m in the summer to try and replenish for the loss. But being kicked out of Europe on both counts, in the Champions League and the Europa League, has brought their season to a standstill.

The Reds have recovered massively and find themselves only two points clear of United, who take on Tottenham in an extremely significant game in the race for a top-four spot at Old Trafford.

Depay's signature would be a major shot in the arm for Rodgers, who has a limited budget to work on and a failure to qualify for Europe, will put a massive dent in that aspect. The player's friends have reportedly informed other parties of the Dutchman's desire to move to Anfield in the summer.

Valued at £20m, Depay has the potential to be a world beater and would be a brilliant replacement for Sterling should the youngster decide to leave.