Liverpool are closely monitoring Reading centre back Alex Pearce, who they see as a long-term replacement for club legend Jamie Carragher. Pearce, who was voted Reading's player of the season last year, is in the last year of his contract and will available at a reduced price in January, or a free agent next Summer.

Pearce played every minute of league football in 2012 to secure Readings promotion to the Premiership, but hasn't featured in McDermott's side since September, in which time they have conceded 18 goals. It is believed Pearce is unhappy with his new deal that Reading have offered and has been dropped from the team until he agrees to sign it. This has invited speculation from Liverpool who are expected to come in with an offer in January.

Rodgers is well aware of the 23 year olds talents from his time at Reading and believes he would make an excellent replacement for the long serving Carragher, whose time at Liverpool seems to be nearing an end. Aside from first choice regulars Skrtel and Agger they are short on defensive reinforcements and Rodgers feels his existing options aren't up to scratch. His former captain at Reading would be an ideal choice who has impressed both on the pitch and off it.

It seems like Liverpool are being linked with anyone and everyone for a move in January, most crucially a striker. But this is a transfer that is very likely to materialise and to turn a few heads. With Agger's consistent injuries and Skrtel's basic mistakes, Pearce would get his fair share of football and he looks a quality young defender. It's to early to say yet but he has the potential to be an Anfield legend to put it mildly.