Liverpool have joined the race to sign Mateo Kovacic and could have an advantage on their rivals, according to Sky Sport Italia.

Juventus, Roma and AC Milan have all been credited with interest in the Real Madrid midfielder, but the Serie A clubs want a loan-to-buy deal whereas the Reds are willing to purchase him outright - a deal which the Champions League winners would prefer.

Kovacic only joined Madrid in August, making a €31 million (£24.3m) switch from Inter, but has struggled to make an impression at the Santiago Bernabeu and is expected to leave this summer.

Source: Goal.com

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