Lyon plan Reds raid

[Morrison]

Lyon could be ready to plan a raid on Liverpool as they search for a new striker.

The French champions have revealed they are willing to let Sidney Govou leave in the summer and are already targeting possible replacements.

Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas has admitted he is keen to bolster his squad and that a new striker and midfielder are his top priorities.

Aulas has revealed he had contact with Liverpool duo Milan Baros and Harry Kewell over a possible move to Stade Gerland.

Baros could be a option for Lyon as he is thought to be considering his future at Anfield.

The Czech Republic star is unhappy at how he is being used by Reds boss Rafa Benitez and admitted several clubs have made offers for his services.

Kewell's future at Anfield is also uncertain as he has failed to live up to expectations since his move from Leeds two seasons ago and his injury problems have frustrated Benitez.

However, Aulas suggests they tried to buy Kewell a while ago and that a deal to sign the Australian international proved too expensive.

"We will hire a player for the right flank. I also want a defensive midfielder as [Michael] Essien and [Mamadou] Diarra will play in the African Cup of Nations, and Juninho will have matches with Brazil," Aulas told L'Equipe.

"We are also looking for an outstanding centre forward.

"We had contact with Baros, and, some time ago, with Kewell, but it was too expensive."

Aulas also ruled out making a new move for Fernando Morientes after they missed out to Liverpool for the Spanish star's signature during the January transfer window.

"About Morientes, when a deal could not be settled, it is not a good idea to go back," added Aulas.

"Anyway, we will have a big team next season and we will have great ambitions."

[The Rule]

hope they both go for decent money.

[DingDong]

take kewell. please.

[DingDong]

Liverpool are reportedly informing clubs interested in buying Milan Baros this summer that they want to see at least 8 million in cash put on the table for the Czech striker.

Baros has failed to reproduce the form he showed at Euro 2004 and while Rafael Benitez is in no rush to get shot of him, the player is available for transfer providing realistic offers come in.

Crystal Palace striker Andy Johnson remains a target and Michael Owen is a serious option but Rafa is also checking on the availability of several strikers across Europe.

If Baros is sold, the cash will certainly go towards a direct replacement.

[The Rule]

Baros should be used to get Andrade.