Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier is preparing a �15m swoop on the transfer market in January in a bid to stop the rot at Anfield.

Liverpool have slumped to fifth place in the Premiership, nine points behind leaders Arsenal.

And according to the Mirror newspaper, Houllier is lining up Charlton's Paul Konchesky as the first of a string of signings.

Houllier's side are in the midst of their worst run in the top flight since 1953 and have gone eight games without a win.

If there is a player who becomes available and the price is right, things can be done Liverpool assistant manager Phil Thompson

Liverpool have already made an enquiry about Konchesky, who can operate at either left-back or left-wing and would cost �5m to lure away from the Valley.

Leeds are also said to be in the race to sign the England Under-21 star.

Houllier is reportedly keen to bring in a striker among his new year signings, if Emile Heskey's injury problems do not ease.

Assistant manager Phil Thompson, though, refused to be drawn on specific players.

But Thompson said: "Things change all the time. If there is a player who becomes available and the price is right, things can be done.

"We have got the complete backing of (chief executive) Rick Parry and the board. It is always a consideration and it's even more so when you look at the transfer window.

"When that is over, you can't make any more signings."