Liverpool 'step up efforts to sign Fulham youngster Patrick Roberts'

Liverpool are said to be "desperate" to sign Fulham's highly-rated youngster Patrick Roberts in January.

The Merseysiders are stepping up their efforts to lure the winger to Anfield after repeatedly sending scouts to monitor his progress, according to The Mirror.

The Reds face competition from several Premier League sides, including Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester City, for Roberts's services, while Fulham are said to be keen to hold onto him.

However, the Championship outfit will reportedly sanction his move to Liverpool if the Reds are willing to send him back on loan.