Liverpool line up Marseille's Lorik Cana to replace Xabi Alonso

Lorik Cana profile: All you need to know about the Liverpool target

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is lining up a shock move for Marseille skipper Lorik Cana - in case Xabi Alonso is sold in the summer.

Benitez is a big fan of the Albanian international whose style is identical to Spanish playmaker Alonso's and he has been making inquiries about him in the past few days.

The Kop chief has contacted Anfield old boy Bolo Zenden to ask about Cana's personality and the Kop spies have also been compiling a hefty dossier on the combative and clever midfielder.

Cana would cost around £10million, which comes with Benitez's budget - especially if the interest in Alonso from Juventus and possibly Arsenal comes to a head.

The 25-year-old was born in war-torn Pristina in Yugoslavia but fled to Albania along with his family. His dad was a former Yugoslav international but Lorik opted for his adopted homeland.

Since joining Marseille Cana has progressed into one of the most respected midfielders in France, and Liverpool saw him at first hand in their Champions League clashes this season.

Marseille are on the brink of a sensational title success in France, with Cana playing a major part, although hard-man coach Eric Gerets has left him out occasionally.

Benitez would love to snap up Cana whether midfield schemer Alonso goes or not. He would be ideal to bring into his squad in either outcome.

The interest in Cana does not cut across any move for Aston Villa's Gareth Barry.

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