Liverpool are reported to be in-line for a shock swoop for Rickie Lambert  The 32 year-old Southampton striker could provide critical depth for the Reds as they prepare to compete in the UEFA Champions League for the first time in five seasons.

The reported £9million deal would be a good return for the Saints. Southampton signed Lambert in 2009 for a little over £1million from Bristol Rovers, Lambert was recently named to the 23-man England squad for this summer’s World Cup.

Southampton lost its manager Maurico Pochettino to Spurs earlier this week and now the surprise package of the 2013-14 Premier League season looks to be raided by top clubs for players as well. The likes of Luke Shaw, Adam Lallana and Dejan Lovren, all of whom are headed to Brazil this summer, are attracting interest from top sides in the league.

Lambert, if signed, would provide an important aerial presence in an attacking position for Liverpool.