TOP TARGET: Romero is set to join Liverpool in January [GETTY]

The Kop have ramped up their search for a new No.1 after boss Brendan Rodgers axed Simon Mignolet.

Backup Brad Jones replaced the Belgian in Sunday's 3-0 defeat at Manchester United, and the Australian is likely to keep his place for tonight's visit to Bournemouth in the Capital One Cup.

Starsport understands Jones is not considered to be a long-term replacement for Mignolet, meaning the Reds will raid the market in January for a serious challenger for the No.1 role.

Reports from Italy suggest Rodgers will focus his efforts on landing Sampdoria goalkeeper Sergio Romero, who starred for Argentina at the World Cup earlier this summer.

Romero has made just nine Serie A appearances for Sampdoria this season, and is understood to be keen on a switch to the Premier League.

His agent Mino Raiola, has worked with Liverpool recently, having conducted the transfer of Mario Balotelli to the club over the summer.

Manchester United were linked with a deadline day approach for Romero earlier this year, however, a deal failed to materialise.