Liverpool Set to Swoop on Manchester City's Micah Richards after Arsenal Sign Debuchy

Liverpool are reportedly looking to prise Micah Richards away from Manchester City for the cheap in the ongoing transfer window.

The Daily Mirror report claims that the Reds possess the advantage in the race for the 26-year-old as the right back is set to leave the reigning Premier League champions. Speculations surfacing earlier suggested that Newcastle United and Arsenal too were interested in signing the Citizens player.

However, the Magpies have signed Netherlands star Daryl Janmaat from Feyenoord to replace Mathieu Debuchy, who joined the Gunners this week. Both the clubs are believed to have pulled out of the race, handing the advantage to Liverpool.

Richards is currently in the final year of his contract and Manuel Pellegrini's side are said to be listening to offers. City have added Bacary Sagna from Arsenal for free and already have Pablo Zabaleta in their ranks.

The England defender made just two league appearances in the previous campaign prompting him to admit that he will consider leaving the Etihad before the start of next season.

"I'm proud for the boys, gutted I didn't qualify for an actual medal but it's a great day for the club. We'll see what happens now. I'll take the summer to think over things." Richards explained.

"I've been here 11 years, I've enjoyed every minute. I'm sure a lot of people hope I stay – but when games are limited sometimes you have to do what's best for your career."

Liverpool are active in the transfer market as manager Brendan Rodgers is swooping on players in various positions to bolster his squad.

The Northern Irishman wants to add more depth to his squad due to the increased number of fixtures that his side will play during the upcoming campaign.

The former Swansea City boss had earlier reiterated his desire to sign versatile players and earmarked Richards, owing to his ability to adapt as a centre-back.

The Merseyside club have made four signings so far in Rickie Lambert, Emre Can, Adam Lallana and Lazar Markovic; but defensive reinforcements are yet to arrive at Anfield. Rodgers has already revealed that more signings are imminent before the 1 September deadline.

Richards could now be available for less than the £7m asking price which City were said to be holding out for before the end of last season.