Thursday, May 08, 2008

Liverpool Linked With Udinese Duo - Report

Liverpool have been linked with Gokhan Inler and Andrea Dossena of Udinese as they look to strengthen their squad this summer.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez has insisted on numerous occasions he needs at least three or four new players this summer as he looks to put an end to his side's trophyless run.

Though the financial war with co-owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett is ongoing, and plans for a new £300 million stadium in Stanley Park have just been approved, it is thought the former Valencia coach will be given adequate funds to acquire new players over the summer, although some of his spending will have to be financed by the sale of current squad members.

John Arne Riise, Jermaine Pennant and Peter Crouch are three expected to see the exit doors at Anfield this summer, who between them, may raise between £15-20 million.

Benitez has been linked with several names, with a move for Borussia Dortmund full-back Philipp Degen said to be confirmed with the player having signed a pre-contract.

Aston Villa captain Gareth Barry is reportedly high on Rafa's wishlist, though it may take an offer of £15 million or more to coax the England international away from Villa Park.

Among many other names - Eric Abidal, David Bentley and Rafinha, to name a few - are Udinese's Gokhan Inler and Andrea Dossena.

The two have played key roles for the Zebrette in a season which is seeing them outside contenders for UEFA Cup qualification. Reports in Italy suggest that the two may be prised away from Udine this summer, with Liverpool said to have made contact with the club.

Inler was signed just this season from FC Zurich. The 23-year-old midfielder is viewed as one of the best signings in Serie A this season.

Dossena, 26, has been at the club for three years, though he spent a season on loan at Treviso. The defender impressed early on in the season and won his first cap for Italy in a friendly against South Africa on November 17.

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