Lazar Markovic
Chelsea consider approach to sign Partizan Belgrade winger Lazar Markovic in the summer Reuters

Liverpool are leading Chelsea in the race for Benfica winger Lazar Markovic as they look to bolster their squad in anticipation of their passage into the Champions League next season, according to the Sunday People.

The Reds have been in brilliant form this season, currently top of the table and favourites to win the Premier League title.

Brendan Rodgers' presence has transformed the club as a whole and they have realised their potential to fight alongside the likes of Chelsea and Manchester City for the league title.

However, the Reds concentrated on only the league, something which will not be possible next season owing to the rigours of European football midweek.

Rodgers is therefore looking to splash some cash and bring in some talented individuals, who can make an impact and keep the Reds afloat on all fronts.

The 20-year-old has shown his talent with the Portuguese club this season, scoring two goals in four appearances in the league and Rodgers has earmarked him as the one to marshall his flanks.

The winger is expected to be available for a fee in the range of £20m which may go up with Jose Mourinho expected to make a bid for the player.

The Serbian is seen as one of the best talents in Europe in the current market with more clubs expected to swoop in for the player in the summer.

Rodgers is reportedly looking to make four to five top draw signings in the summer, with young players rumoured to be on top of his agenda at the moment.

Mourinho is also in the market to secure top talent, with a striker on top of his list of priorities. The Portuguese has repeatedly voiced his discontent over his current crop of frontmen and is also likely to splurge the case to supplement his wings to sharpen their attacking prowess.