RAFAEL BENITEZ has challenged Liverpool’s youngsters to make an impact at the club after the Reds were linked with two more of Europe’s brightest prospects.

The Liverpool manager wants to give several of the club’s reserves and youth players the chance to impress in pre-season as he plans for the new campaign.

Benitez is also having to contend with continued speculation about the futures of Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano, with strong rumours from Spain that Barcelona have lodged a £35million bid for the Argentina captain in the past 24 hours.

Liverpool declined to comment on that piece of speculation last night, but the Merseysiders are believed to be on the brink of confirming the addition of two more teenage stars to their ranks.

They have been linked with Danish 16-year-old Nikolaj Kohlert, from Esbjerg.

The under-17 international had a trial at Anfield recently and is likely to sign a three-year contract.

Liverpool are also closing in on Paris St Germain youngster Chris Mavinga on a similar three-year deal.

The defender has already been capped by France at under-18 level.

Such acquisitions underline Benitez’s policy to search Europe for the best youngsters.