Liverpool have identified Portsmouth midfielder Sulley Muntari as the key addition if they are to force their way back into the Premier League title race.

But Reds boss Rafa Benitez will only make a move for the former Udinese player if his chances of keeping Javier Mascherano at Anfield go up in smoke.

Muntari has made a swift and impressive start to life in England after starring in Serie A and hit the headlines last weekend with two blistering goals in Pompey’s 3-1 victory at Aston Villa.

He was less effective in Saturday’s 1-0 defeat to Tottenham and was replaced before the end but Liverpool believe he is a real prospect and would like to add his services if Argentinian Mascherano does not stay.