Liverpool boosted in Gerrard replacement chase

Liverpool have been handed a major boost in the race for Miralem Pjanic with the midfielder ready to leave Roma at the end of the season, according to reports from Corriere dello Sport.

The Bosnia and Herzagovina international has recently emerged as a top target for the Reds, with Brendan Rodgers thought to see him as an ideal replacement for departing captain Steven Gerrard - who is set to join LA Galaxy.

Pjanic is considered to be one of European football's best young midfielders and the 24-year-old has been lauded for his set-piece prowess.

And now reports claim that he's ready to make a move away from Rome, which will come as a massive boost for the Merseysiders.

Rodgers may look to formalise the club's interest this summer.

Pjanic broke through at Lyon, playing alongside Brazilian hero Juninho Pernambucano, before he joined Roma in 2011.