Liverpool rival Hammers in hunt for £10m-rated Irish star

Liverpool have reportedly joined the race to sign Ireland striker Shane Long from Championship side Reading.

Reds boss Kenny Dalglish is keen to add to his squad for the new season and he reputedly sees Long as a player that will fit snugly between Jay Spearing and David Ngog on the Liverpool bench.

The striker, who scored 25 goals in all competitions last season, is expected to leave the Madejski Stadium this summer, with the Royals willing to cash in 12 months before the end of his existing contract.

West Bromwich Albion manager Roy Hodgson had been fronting the chase for the 24-year-old but failed to make a firm offer and the Baggies now look likely to lose out.

West Ham have made two formal bids over the past 48 hours, both of which value the player at approximately £8m with the most recent offer increasing the among of cash they’re willing to pay up front. (See more on West Ham's here and here.)

However, Long would surely be a crazy fool to accept a move to another Championship club if there are other offers from Premier League clubs on the table. (A very rich crazy fool, but a crazy fool nonetheless.)

For all the latest news, gossip, rumours and completely made-up-stuff, why not head on over to our Transfer Tracker Live, which today stars Charles N’Zogbia, Juan Mata and – drum roll! – long lost superstar Leroy Lita.