Genoa defender Andreas Granqvist has admitted that he is flattered by speculation linking him with a switch to Liverpool.

The Sweden international has been touted as a potential transfer target for the Merseyside club, who are expected to try to bolster their contingent in the January transfer window.

Granqvist moved to the Serie A side from Dutch club Groningen in 2011 for £2 million, and has thoroughly impressed for his new employers.

The Scandinavian stopper was linked with a move to a bigger club in the summer, with Lazio, AC Milan and Inter all hot on the heels of the centre-back.

However, it is now Brendan Rodgers' Liverpool side that are being touted as potential suitors, which Granqvist takes as a complement.

"Honestly, I don't know much about this interest. I am focused on Sweden's World Cup qualifiers and then we'll see what happens," Granqvist told Sportbladet, translated to English by Metro.

"I am happy in Genoa, but obviously I am flattered by the interest from the Reds. They are an historic and successful club."

Granqvist knows the English game well after spending 18 months with Wigan back in 2007 and 2008, with limited effect.

Despite failing to make a favourable impression with the Latics and only stepping out for the DW Stadium side 14 times, Granqvist has revitalised his career abroad and is now an accomplished international defender.

Granqvist was part of the Sweden Euro 2012 squad, and faced England in the tournament in Ukraine and Poland; the Three Lions won the game 3-2.