Liverpool are preparing a move to sign Manchester United target Angelo Ogbonna at the end of the season, according to talkSPORT.

Angelo Ogbonna
Reuters

The report claims the Premier League leaders were keen on landing the Italian international and United manager Sir Alex Ferguson had sent his scouts to watch the defender in action during Tornio's clash against Roma.

Meanwhile, Liverpool, who were long been monitoring the defender has now re-ignited their interest in bringing the 24-year-old to Anfield. The Reds scouts were in the stands during his side's 2-2 draw over Bologna at Stadio Renato Dall'Ara.

Liverpool are in a need of a central defender in the summer as their veteran Jamie Carragher is in his final season of professional football. The former England international had earlier announced his retirement from football after the end of the current campaign and finding a replacement for the 35-year-old has been a top priority for Reds manager Brendan Rodgers.

Torino president Urbano Cairo earlier admitted the Italian club could well see the defender leave in the summer after he revealed that several clubs are interested in his services. Despite speculation linking Ogbonna with a move away from the Serie A outfit, Cairo is expecting the player to continue with his current employers.

"A lot of clubs are still very interested in Ogbonna. In June we will sit down and evaluate together what to do next. Maybe he will have a desire to stay here for a bit longer," Cairo told Tuttosport

Ogbonna recently revealed that he is flattered to be linked with a move to Old Trafford and he is aware of the interest from United. However, the centre-back claimed he is currently concentrating on his game with Torino will not discuss about his future until the end of the season. The Italian international has started 16 games for his side in the Serie A this season and has been in impressive form for Torino this season, which has earned him a place in the national squad.

It will not be an easy task for Liverpool as they are set to battle it out with United for the defender's signature this summer. Should the Merseyside club sign Ogbonna at the end of the season, it is likely to strengthen their back four.