Liverpool 'preparing £27.5m Jackson Martinez bid'

Liverpool are reportedly prepared to step up their pursuit of Porto striker Jackson Martinez with a sizeable bid for the Colombian star.

The 28-year-old is one of a number of players linked with a move to Anfield in January as the Reds look to add depth to their squad.

However, the Daily Star claims that Liverpool will face competition for Martinez from the likes of Arsenal, Manchester United and Chelsea in the forthcoming transfer window.

It is thought that manager Brendan Rodgers is an admirer of the striker and could be ready to bid £27.5m and steal a march on Merseyside club's Premier League rivals.

Martinez's agent Henrique Pompeu has denied rumours that his client will look to leave the Estadio Dragao in the New Year.