Sunderland and Everton have been joined by Liverpool in the hunt for promising French full back Rod Fanni of Rennes.
Boss Steve Bruce had been linked with a move for the 28-year-old since before Christmas, with Goodison Park counterpart David Moyes also thought to be keen as he bids to upgrade a problem position at his club.
But now Liverpool have entered the race for Fanni after reports emerged that Anfield boss Rafael Benitez had sent scouts to watch him in action against Lille last week, although with England right full-back Glen Johnson at the club, the scout may have been updating files on several potential targets.