Liverpool top Arsenal in race for Swansea star Williams
thesun
LIVERPOOL are convinced they have stolen a march on Arsenal to sign Ashley Williams.
But Brendan Rodgers biggest battle could come in convincing Reds owners Fenway Sports Group to cough up £12million-plus for the Swansea skipper.
Williams is the Anfield chiefs first choice to replace 35-year-old Jamie Carragher, who retires at the end of the season.
Welsh centre-back Williams, 28, played under Rodgers for two years at Swans and is a boyhood Liverpool fan.
Arsenal are also in the hunt and had a £9m offer turned down in January.
Rodgers, who will have to convince the clubs American owners Williams is worth the money, revealed: Its important to get players in as quick as we can.
Its about availability and players we can afford.
