Liverpool are ready to launch a bid for Swansea City defender Ashley Williams.

The People says Reds boss Brendan Rodgers has told his board that the man he wants to sign is Swansea centre-back Williams.

He knows the player well from his own time at the Liberty Stadium and while the club are mainly looking for players in their early-20s, Rodgers believes it is important to also sign some more experienced players.

Manchester United boss Sir Alex Ferguson is keeping tabs on 28-year-old Williams, but following a meeting with the board this week, Liverpool are now going to chase him too. Arsenal are also interested in the Welsh international captain.