Matheus Biteco <diva>

Liverpool are preparing to make a bid in the 'coming days' for Grêmio's Matheus Biteco according to a Brazilian journalist.

Porto Alegre-based journalist Luiz Zini Pires claims that the Reds will be swooping for the Grêmio youngster after impressing at the Toulon U20 tournament. Zini also says that Liverpool have been tracking the youngster since 2012 and the Brazilian is considered one of Grêmio's top youth prospects.

Sambafoot revealed earlier this week that Liverpool sent scouts to the tournament and that defensive midfielder Matheus is one player being looked at as a possible signing. Liverpool have a history with Matheus' parent club, Grêmio, having signed Lucas Leiva in 2007 and former Reds left-back Fabio Aurelio currently plies his trade at the Porto Alegre club.

Porto Alegre native Matheus has featured in Grêmio's Campeonato Gaucho campaign, making six appearances in midfield, three of them in the starting lineup. The summer would be an ideal time for a swoop as Matheus turns 18 in June, paving the way for a move abroad as Brazil laws prevent the departure of footballers aged 17 and under from Brazil.

Liverpool are thought to be looking to bolster their defensive options this summer and with Lucas Leiva their only recognised defensive midfielder, Matheus could be a long-term solution.