Leeds United have been linked with a £15 million swoop for Liverpool striker Robbie Fowler. Fowler has yet to sign a new contract with the Anfield outfit, and a series of high-profile arguments with the management team, mean Liverpool may be ready to cash in on the unsettled forward.
Gerard Houllier is understood to be frustrated at Fowler's unwillingness to sign a new contract, and will sell the player rather than risk losing him on a Bosman free transfer. If he can't agree a deal with Fowler, Leeds will lead the chase for his signature, although Lazio and Blackburn are both tracking the situation.
The sale of Fowler would upset many Liverpool fans, for who the homegrown star is a cult figure. But the constant speculation about the player's future, along with his desire for first team football may make the move attractive to both parties. Fowler has been unable to command a regular place since Emile Heskey's arrival at Anfield and may think his chances of an England place would be enhanced by a move to a club where he is starting regularly.
Blackburn boss Graeme Souness was an early mentor to Fowler, during the Scot's tenure as Liverpool manager. Although Leeds and Lazio would be more attractive propositions to Fowler, Souness is likely to have transfer funds available following the sale of Marcus Bent, and the impending departure of Ciccio Grabbi, who will return to Italy.
Filed by John Raftery
