Liverpool will enter a January battle with AC Milan for Barcelona star Cristian Tello, according to talkSPORT.

The Spaniard has been in talks with the Catalan club regarding a new contract but, so far, negotiations have not been successful. Tello has appeared 8 times for Barca this season, netting twice.

Liverpool have declared their interest in the 21 year old but reports in Italy have suggested that AC Milan are keen to bring the youngster to the San Siro. Tello's contract expires in the summer and it is though that, should the player and club fail to agree negotiations, Barcelona would rather cash in on the midfielder in January, rather than let him go for nothing come June.

Brendan Rodgers is looking to strengthen his squad after a below average start to the season at Anfield. With just one striker fit to play, the Reds boss is keen to bring in more forwards in the upcoming transfer window as cover for the insatiable Luis Suarez. It is thought that Tello would fit perfectly into the new system at Liverpool, as well as adhering to Rodgers' policy of integrating youth players into the first team.