Liverpool face battle for Morientes: agent

Liverpool were warned by Fernando Morientes' agent they faced a fight with several European clubs for the Real Madrid striker's signature.

Liverpool are reported to have a 3.5 million pounds bid for the 28-year-old forward rejected, but agent Gines Carvajal said while he knew nothing about specific offers there was plenty of interest.

Carvajal said: "It is certain Liverpool are interested in the player but I don't believe there have been any concrete propositions for a transfer."

"Morientes only wants to play and today this is impossible in Real Madrid. The player is a great striker and there are several European clubs interested in him."

Liverpool will be on the lookout for a striker in the January transfer window as cover for long-term injury absence Djibril Cisse.

Morientes has ruled out another temporary move, having been the Champions League top scorer last season while on loan to Monaco, whom he helped take to the CHampions League final.

He said recently: "To play for Liverpool would please any player and in Rafa Benitez they have a technical coach who I have always appreciated."

"But there are a lot of things to sort out. I haven't spoken directly with Benitez but I know Liverpool want me."

In the meantime homegrown forward Neil Mellor has made the most of Cisse's lay-off. His goal in Sunday's 3-1 win over Newcastle was his fifth in 11 matches.

Mellor said: "I know I am not the most attractive of players to watch but whatever I'm doing it seems to be effective."

"Since I've been in the side I've scored a few goals which hopefully the manager will make note of."

"I am conscious that January is just around the corner and so it may be this is my last chance. Everybody has been talking about the manager going out and buying a new striker and I am aware of that."

"But if I make as big an impact as I can he knows he can rely on me if I am needed at any point throughout the season."