LIVERPOOL are eyeing a move for Sadio Mane, according to the national press.

The Telegraph, Guardian and Daily Star have all reported that, after the Reds put on hold their chase for Bayern Munich star Mario Gotze, they will turn their attentions to Saints attacker Mane.

The Senegalese international, who was Saints' 15-goal top-scorer last season, is also expected to be of interest to both Manchester and Tottenham as well as the Anfield outfit.

As has been well-documented, Liverpool have taken a huge amount of interest in Saints stars in the past, having bought Dejan Lovren, Adam Lallana, Rickie Lambert and Nathaniel Clyne over the past two seasons.

This latest link comes as Jurgen Klopp attempts to find an alternative to Gotze and it is understood that Mane suits the German manager's pressing style.

Liverpool are yet to make an official offer for Mane and will likely meet firm resistance from St Mary's if any offer is made.

Mane has, of course, been subject of massive transfer speculation in the past, with Manchester United admirers of the 24-year-old.

The former Red Bull Saltzburg man, who arrived from Austria in £10m deal in 2014, is one of Saints' prized assets and Ronald Koeman will be keen to keep the club's best players as they head into the Europa League next season. 

He recently told the Daily Echo that he was hopeful that Saints would build another great team for next season. 

“The most important thing is we are a team and hopefully we will build a great team like this season,” he said. “We will prepare for our national team games and after we will see what happens for next season.”

That, perhaps, gives an insight into the mentality of Mane ahead of a summer of interest in his services.

The forward, who is currently on duty with Senegal, had a superb end to the season, but struggled for form earlier in the campaign during a four-month goalless spell.