Liverpool are “ahead” of Juventus and AC Milan in the battle to snap up Real Madrid winger Marco Asensio, according to Fantacalcio.it.

The Italian website claims that Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is a big admirer of the Spanish international and the Merseyside club are “preparing” a €40m (£34m) bid for the player.

Asensio’s contract at the Bernabeu expires in 2023 and Real are reportedly willing to let the 25-year-old leave either in January or at the end of the season to prevent him from leaving on a free transfer.

Other sources have mentioned Arsenal as a potential suitor for the Spaniard but Fantacalcio only mention three teams as being ready to make their move.

While Liverpool can afford the €40m required, neither Juve nor Milan have the funds to match that offer, meaning the Premier League side may be able to seal Asensio’s signature pretty much unopposed, unless a new club enters the fray.