Diafra Sakho
Sakho has been in terrific form at West Ham this seasonReuters

Liverpool are reportedly planning a January swoop for West Ham United striker Diafra Sakho, following his impressive performances in the Premier League this season.

With both their summer signings Mario Balotelli and Rickie Lambert proving to be big flops and Daniel Sturridge still struggling with injuries, Reds boss Brendan Rodgers is desperate to sign a new striker as he looks to turn around Liverpool's campaign in the second half of the season.

The Reds are already being linked to a number of strikers including West Brom's Saido Berahino and Porto's Jackson, but the Metro claims that Rodgers is more interested in landing Sakho, as he would probably be available at a cheaper price than the other two players.

While West Bromwich Albion are demanding £25 million for Berahino, Martinez has a release-clause of £27.5 million.

And Liverpool, who have already spent a considerable amount on transfer this summer, would probably not be looking to spend too much in January. Due to this reason, the Reds are now reportedly keen on landing Sakho.

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The 24-year-old Senegalese international, who moved from Ligue 1 side FC Metz for a transfer fee of only £4.4 million this summer, has already made his mark on the Premier League, netting 7 goals from 9 appearances so far.

Meanwhile, Liverpool have been boosted in their attempts to land Benfica right-back Maxi Pereira in January, as the Portuguese side are reportedly ready to sell the Uruguayan for £4 million.

Rodgers is eager to sign a new right-back to replace Glen Johnson, who is expected to leave Anfield after the expiration of his contract this summer, with Serie A side Roma reportedly interested in him.

Earlier it was believed that Rodgers was interested in signing Barcelona's Martin Montoya in January, but latest reports claim that the Northern Irishman has cooled down his interest in the 23-year-old (due to too many clubs being interested in his signature), and directed his attention towards Benfica's Pereira.

And now the Mirror claims that Benfica are ready to part with their 30-year-old right-back for a fee of £4 million in January.

However, it will be interesting to see whether Liverpool will spend £4 million on an ageing player, who will be available on a free transfer in the summer.