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Ajax target Litmanen return

AJAX are thought to be lining up a move to bring back Liverpool ace Jari Litmanen to the Amsterdam ArenA.

The Finnish international's future at Anfield is uncertain as he has been left on the sidelines for most of his time at the club and with The Reds looking for a new striker he could be pushed further down the pecking order.

Litmanen has found himself a victim of Gerard Houllier's rotation system with Michael Owen and Emile Heskey ahead of him the Frenchman's plans.

The skilful front-man is thought to be unhappy at his lack of first-team chances with Liverpool and could consider a return to Amsterdam.

The former Barcelona man is one of Ajax's favourite sons having helped them win the European Cup in 1995 and the Dutch champions have been linked with Litmanen for some time.

Ajax coach Ronald Koeman is a big fan of Litmanen and would like to add his experience to his relatively young squad.

Koeman is planning a number of signings in the summer as he prepares for next season's Champions League and a move for Litamanen would sure prove to be a popular one with the Ajax fans.

Meanwhile, Nick Barmby could be another player on his way out of Anfield.

The England international was beset with injuries last season and failed to feature in the first team much when he recovered to full fitness.

The 28-year-old has been restricted to appearances in the reserves and he could be offloaded by Houllier as he looks to bring in fresh blood.

Barmby's old club Middlesbrough are believed to be leading the chase for his signature and Boro boss Steve McClaren could make a move to bring the midfielder back to the North East.