Liverpool are raiding Blackburn Rovers for young striker John Banton.

The Mirror says Liverpool boss Kenny Dalglish has gone back to old club to make 18 year-old Banton the first signing of his second spell at Anfield.

Dalglish has snapped up the former England youth international after Rovers let him go because he was growing unsettled.

Banton joined Rovers from Arsenal - where he also became fed up at his lack of progress through the ranks - two years ago, and he had been pushing for a first-team squad slot at Ewood Park.

Liverpool have handed the youngster a deal to the end of the season.