LIVERPOOL are still heading the pack in the race to sign Blackburn Rovers defender Lucas Neill, despite interest from Chelsea and Newcastle.

The Magpies and Chelsea will both try to tempt the Australian captain with more cash, but the 28-year-old is said to have set his heart on a switch to Anfield.

Sources in Liverpool have told Telegraph Sport that the Reds are expected to make a renewed bid for Neill in January when the transfer window opens - and they're confident of getting their man.

Rovers chairman John Williams insisted yesterday there has been no contact from either Newcastle or Chelsea.

And although he confirmed Neill was definitely leaving the club, he said the final decision on his departure, whether it was during the January transfer window or at the end of the season, would rest with the club and the player.

He said: "We've had no contact from Chelsea. The situation is unchanged.

"Lucas has said he would like to look at fresh challenges, having spent a considerable time here.

"The decision is between us and him about whether he leaves in January or at the end of the season.

"It all depends on whether the offer is right for the club and whether Lucas wants to leave in January.

"We will do what's best for the team. If it's in our best interests to keep hold of Lucas until the summer then we will.

"Equally, if it's in our best interests to sell him in January then that's what we'll do."

Liverpool almost signed Neill before the transfer window closed back in August with Anfield youngster Stephen Warnock targeted to move to Ewood Park as a makeweight in the deal.

Although that deal collapsed at the eleventh hour, sources in Liverpool suggest that deal could be rekindled.

Barcelona and AC Milan are two other clubs who have been touted as possible suitors for the Australian international.

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