Rodgers to Lock Horns with Martinez for Wigan Star - Report

Liverpool are considering a move for Wigan Athletic striker Arouna Kone. The Ivorian joined the Latics from Spanish side Levante for €3.5m last summer and has had a commendable debut season in the Premier League, notching 11 goals and five assists from 34 appearances for the relegated club.

The 29-year-old was expected to leave the DW Stadium this summer and follow former Wigan boss Roberto Martinez to Everton. However, according to The Sun, the Reds have thrown their hat in the ring.

Brendan Rodgers is believed to be in the market for a new striker, following disciplinary problems for Uruguay international Luis Suarez. The 26-year-old was slapped a 10-match FA ban for biting Chelsea defender Branislav Ivanovic on the arm. He will miss six games of the 2013/14 season.

Suarez's future at Anfield is uncertain, with the former Ajax forward claiming he wants a move to Spanish side Real Madrid. The Reds are understandably unwilling to lose his services but are also probably readying themselves for that eventuality.

There are also doubts over England international Daniel Sturridge's fitness. The former Chelsea man injured himself in the recent friendly against the Republic of Ireland and could be out for months, meaning he may miss the start of the new season. Rodgers is therefore keen on adding a striker to his ranks, to avoid yet another disappointing start to the domestic campaign.

Celta Vigo's Iago Aspas is expected to complete his move to Liverpool shortly but Rodgers is understood to want another forward to support Sturridge.

The Mirror claims Kone has a £6.5m release clause in his Wigan contract.

Peter Gulacsi Joins Salzburg

Meanwhile, Austrian giants Red Bull Salzburg have signed Reds' goalkeeper Peter Gulacsi on a free transfer. The 23-year-old Hungarian, who failed to make a first-team appearance for the Reds during a six-year stay at Anfield, has put pen to paper on a four-year deal with Salzburg.

"I am pleased that as of now I will be able to play for a top Austrian club. My goal is to compete to be the club's No 1 and be successful with FC Red Bull Salzburg both domestically and in Europe," Gulacsi said.