Liverpool and Spurs set to do battle for Real Madrid defender Marcelo, claim reports

Marcelo of Brazil in action during the 2014 FIFA World Cup Brazil Group A match between Cameroon and Brazil at Estadio Nacional on June 23, 2014 in Brasilia, Brazil

Liverpool and Spurs are set to battle for Real Madrid defender and Brazil international Marcelo this summer, according to the Daily Star.

Both sides are already engaged in a contest to capture the signature of Premier League star Adam Lallana, who was involved in England’s dead rubber game against Costa Rica.

Liverpool have already made two bids for Lallana, both of which have been turned away by his club side Southampton, while Spurs maintain an interest in the talented playmaker. They are now likely to do battle to capture the Brazilian left-back.

Spanish sources suggest that Pochettino, who is set to undertake an overhaul of the Spurs squad, sees Marcelo as the ideal option for the left-back role.

Brendan Rodgers played Jon Flanagan out of position at left-back last season after a series of injuries suffered by Jose Enrique. While the English youngster impressed, Liverpool face significantly different challenges this season, mainly in the shape of the Champions League.