Liverpool have identified the Blackburn Rovers winger Damien Duff as the first target in an extensive recruitment programme over the summer.

Liverpool hope to persuade a reluctant Blackburn to part with Duff before the start of the World Cup, to avoid the possibility that a good campaign with the Republic of Ireland will increase his transfer value.

Duff, 23 earlier this month, has excelled for club and country this season, playing on either wing and, at times for the Republic, up front ahead of Robbie Keane as Niall Quinn's partner.