Liverpool and Everton set for a battle over Stephane Mbia

Liverpool and Everton look set to enter into a transfer race this summer, as both sides line up moves for QPR’s Stephane Mbia, reports talkSPORT. The player spent last season on loan away from Loftus Road, and it does not look likely that he will be signing a new deal, when his current contract runs out later this month.

Mbia spent the whole of last season on loan at La Liga side, Sevilla. He became an important part of the Spanish club’s team, and he was heavily involved in their Europa League victory – scoring a penalty within the deciding shootout against Benfica.

A permanent move to Sevilla still remains a likely possibility, but according to French radio station RMC Sports, the Premier League pair are also interested in the player. Both Roberto Martinez and Brendan Rogers are looking to strengthen ahead of next season, and the player offers an option in each side.

At Everton, the midfielder could become a replacement for Gareth Barry, after his loan deal expired this summer. For Liverpool, Mbia would add another choice within their highly rated midfield ranks – as Brendan Rogers prepares for the Champion’s League, he will need greater strength in depth.

It is suggested that the Merseyside rivals are each lining up potential one year deals for the player who is currently representing Cameroon in the World Cup finals. For now, the story is speculation, but Mbia’s name could become a frequent one for the English press, post World Cup.