Southampton 'reject Liverpool's approach for Shane Long'

Southampton have reportedly turned down an approach from Liverpool for striker Shane Long.

Jurgen Klopp is believed to have identified the Republic of Ireland international as a January target due to the club's lack of firepower up front.

Daniel Sturridge, Danny Ings and Divock Origi are on the treatment table, while Christian Benteke has struggled to hold down a regular spot in the first XI.

Liverpool have around two weeks left to bring in any additional recruits, and according to ESPN, their approach for Long, who has scored seven goals in all competitions this season, has been rejected by Southampton.

Long joined the South Coast club from Hull City in 2014.