Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang emerges as Liverpool target with Jurgen Klopp ready to pounce if Daniel Sturridge leaves

LIVERPOOL are ready to launch a bid for Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, according to reports.

The Gabon-born striker was desperate to leave Borussia Dortmund in the summer, and has struggled this season despite netting an impressive 17 goals in 19 games.

He was suspended following an unauthorised trip to Barcelona before his needless red card sparked Schalke's dramatic comeback from 4-0 down to 4-4 in the Rivierderby.

And the claim Liverpool are ready to swoop.

The report claims Daniel Sturridge may be looking to leave Anfield in search of game time with a World Cup place far from assured.

While there may be some concern at Anfield after Egypt manager Hector Cuper claimed Real Madrid were interested in signing Reds strike ace Mohamed Salah.

Aubameyang was close to a move to Chelsea in the summer, but was forced to stay as no bid arrived before the deadline set by Dortmund.

However, his unhappiness is clear to see as he has been guilty of a number of misdemeanours.

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The loss of Ousmane Dembele to Barcelona and the behaviour of Aubameyang have both been contributing factors in the disappointing season Peter Bosz and his men are enduring.

But they may see a big January bid as the perfect opportunity to cash in on their top scorer.

Jurgen Klopp signed him for BVB in 2013, but left at the end of the following campaign.

Since the German's departure, Aubameyang has burst into life as one of the best goal scorers in Europe.

And Klopp would be keen on a reunion with a player whose style would fit perfectly in his attacking system.