Alan Pardew eyes Rickie Lambert swoop?

New Crystal Palace manager Alan Pardew has set his sights on signing Liverpool striker Rickie Lambert in January, according to reports.

Lambert has made just 10 starts for the Reds since joining from Southampton in the summer, scoring two goals, including one against Palace in the Premier League.

The 32-year-old has fallen down the pecking order following a run in the first team, with Brendan Rodgers preferring Raheem Sterling in a central attacking role in recent weeks.

His lack of playing time has alerted Pardew, who brought Lambert to Southampton from Bristol Rovers in 2009.

The former Newcastle United boss is understood to have inquired about the availability of the England international, although Liverpool are reportedly keen to keep hold of him.

Like Palace, Liverpool are also thought to be in the market for a striker this January, and any potential deal for Lambert could hinge on the possible return of Divock Origi on loan from Lille.