Hodgson closes in on Wigan defender and ponders moves for Salcido, Konchesky, Drenthe and Young

While Liverpool wait on the future of their stars, boss Roy Hodgson will continue the task of squad building.

The new manager wants a left back, left sided utility man, cover for defence and a top class attacking player to complement his under-strength group.

The Reds moved closer to a deal for Wigan full back Maynor Figueroa yesterday, with the two clubs edging towards a fee of around £5million for the defender, and the player's agent suggesting last night: "Just a few details remain before we confirm the signing."

But Hodgson has alternatives, with the suggestion that Real Madrid's wing back Royston Drenthe posted a message two weeks ago on his personal Facebook site, suggesting a move to Anfield is imminent.

That claim was later denied by his representative and there have been no subsequent posts, but Liverpool did make contact over the midfielder.

They have also looked at PSV Eindhoven's Mexico international defender Carlos Salcido, who is available for around £2million as another left sided utility player, and would be less than a third of the fee of Drenthe.

Hodgson has also considered his former Fulham charge Paul Konchesky, but there are complications with signings from his old club, and he has also sounded out Villa over veteran Luke Young.