Liverpool plot swoop for Montenegro talisman

Liverpool are being linked with a January move for Montenegro striker Mirko Vucinic.

The Roma star is reportedly keen on a Stadio Olimpico exit after clashing with manager Claudio Ranieri, and Liverpool are thought to be one of the interested parties in the player.

Vucinic began his career at Sutjeska Nikšić before moving to Serie A side Lecce in 2000 as a teenager. Progressive improvements during his time with the Giallorossi saw a number of clubs monitor the player, but it was Roma who landed the player for €3.25 million.

After hitting double figure goal-tallies in the past two seasons, Vucinic is seen as one of the top strikers in European football. He's also recently hit the headlines with a bizarre international goal celebration, taking off his shorts and putting them on his head.

Temperament could be a key issue in any decision to move for the player, and Liverpool boss Roy Hodgson would have to pay in the region of £13 million to bring him to Anfield.

Reports in Italy suggest the player is looking to move after reactingly badly to being substituted in the 0-0 draw against Parma, and the aforementioned fee is a reduced price from La Maggica's original valuation.

With Liverpool short of striking options and NESV pledging to invest in transfers on Merseyside, Hodgson appears likely to bring in another striker when the window re-opens.

Carlton Cole and Mario Gomez are two other strikers thought to be on the Liverpool wishlist, with the former Fulham boss looking to find a foil for Kop hero Fernando Torres.