Barcelona have stepped up their interest in Liverpool defender Daniel Agger and are reportedly contemplating a bid for him after the end of the season, according to the Express. The La Liga leaders are planning a major overhaul in the summer with manager Tito Vilanova expected to bring in five or six players to improve their squad.

Daniel Agger
Reuters

The report suggests that former Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano has recommended the defender to Barcelona who are in the market to replace Carles Puyol and Eric Abidal. The Catalans moved in for the Dane last summer, but failed to agree terms with Liverpool over a transfer.

The Denmark international has played an integral part for Liverpool this season, with the defender making 38 starts in all competitions, scoring two goals and assisting two. The 28-year-old had signed a contract extension with Liverpool last year, which will keep him at the club till 2016. However, the Reds will be wary about interest from Barcelona, with the defender stating in an interview last summer that it will be difficult for him to extend his stay at Anfield if the Catalans come calling.

Should Barcelona fail to sign Agger, the Spanish giants can then turn their attention to sign Arsenal misfit Thomas Vermaelen as they are also reportedly keeping an eye on the Gunners defender and are expected to decide on their choice after the end of the season.

Borini Delighted After Scoring First Goal for Liverpool

Fabio Borini
Reuters

Meanwhile, Fabio Borini has thanked the fans for their support after he scored his first goal for Liverpool in their 6-0 rout of Newcastle at St. James' Park last weekend. The Italian missed most of this season owing to a broken foot he suffered during international duty with Italy. The forward also suffered a shoulder injury against Southampton in February which prolonged his stay out of the first team.

"It was big emotion for me to score my first goal in the Premier League for Liverpool, especially after a long injury and a long wait for it. What made it even better for me was that it came in front of the Liverpool supporters so I could celebrate with them. I just wanted to thank them for the support and they have really helped me through my injuries," Borini told the club website.