Reds willing to part with combative midfielder.
Liverpool are ready to allow midfielder Lucas Leiva to leave Anfield this summer in order to free up funds for their pursuit of Southampton defender Dejan Lovren, according to The Express.
Despite missing two months of the campaign with a knee injury, Lucas started 20 Premier League matches last season and made a further seven appearances as a sub.
The 27-year-old Brazil international joined Liverpool from Gremio five years ago. He has three years left to run on his current contract with the Reds.
Napoli are said to be keen on Lucas, but manager Rafael Benitez would prefer to sign him on loan initially.
Liverpool would rather sell Lucas in a straightforward deal and that could see the player move to Inter Milan.
Lucas’ exit could allow Liverpool to increase their offer for Lovren, 25.
Southampton, who have already sold striker Rickie Lambert and midfielder Adam Lallana to the Reds this summer, have rejected a £20m bid for the Croatia defender.
The Saints are said to be demanding £25m.
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