Report: Liverpool to bid for Newcastle United's Cheick Tiote

Liverpool are to launch a £15.5m bid for Newcastle United midfielder Cheick Tiote, according to reports.

The former FC Twente man allegedly told a magazine in his native Ivory Coast that he was "looking for a new challenge", but the Elephants international subsequently went on record to dismiss said claims on the Magpies' official website.

Nevertheless, the Daily Express has claimed that Reds manager Brendan Rodgers is on the lookout for a midfield anchorman to reinforce things in the middle of the park, pinpointing Tiote as the man to fulfil this role.

Arsenal and Manchester United are also said to be interested in signing the 28-year-old in the forthcoming transfer window.