Former Wigan player Paul Scharner is set for talks with Liverpool over a free transfer to Merseyside. New Reds boss Roy Hodgson is thought to be an admirer of the versatile 30-year-old, who left the Latics after his contract expired at the end of last season.
Hodgson tried to sign the Austrian on three occasions when manager of Fulham, but failed in each attempt.
If the deal is to be successful, Scharner could possibly fill the void left by defensive midfielder Javier Mascherano should the Argentine depart.
"Roy Hodgson and Paul Scharner - this is a special relationship," said Scharner's agent, Valentin Hobel.
"Hodgson thinks that Paul's strengths in midfield are better than his attributes in central defence.
"Liverpool would be a dream, of course, but we are in contact with several clubs. Because he is a free transfer, he can choose."
