Liverpool and Everton in race to sign Rory Donnelly from Cliftonville

Liverpool and Everton are both thought to be interested in signing youngster Rory Donnelly from Irish side Cliftonville.

The 19-year-old striker was expected to sign for Swansea City in a £100,000 deal during January's transfer window.

Gerard Lawlor, Cliftonville's chairman, has claimed the Belfast-based club received a direct inquiry from Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish over the weekend.

Lawlor said: "He made it clear that Liverpool want to sign him and that they would be back in touch."

Liverpool's Merseyside rivals Everton are also believed to be interested in signing Donnelly.

David Moyes has experience in dealing with Irish clubs already, signing Seamus Coleman from Shamrock Rovers two years ago.