Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso’s long running move to Real Madrid could finally be completed early next week. Liverpool are holding out for £30million, but the Spanish international midfielder has now handed in a transfer request at Anfield.
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez doesn’t want to lose the influential midfielder, but it seems he will have no choice with the player so keen on a return to his homeland. Real could offer £24million plus Rafael Van Der Vaart, Alvaro Negredo or Klaas-Jan Huntelaar in part-exchange for the former Sociedad star.
However Benitez is believed to want a straight cash deal and use the cash for a midfield replacement. Roma midfielder Alberto Aquilani is his top target but Benitez is also said to be interested in Wigan schemer Lee Cattermole, who impressed for England Under-21’s at the recent European Championships.
There are also reports that the Liverpool boss could use the funds to sign Valencia striker David Villa. The Spain star has forged a productive partnership at international level with kop hero Fernando Torres. The Anfield fans would be excited by the prospect of Villa joining up with Torres.
Villa’s future has been in doubt all summer with Los Ches in financial trouble. The 27 year-old has also been linked with a host of top European clubs including Manchester United, European champions Barcelona and big spending Real Madrid.
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