Sunday, May 04, 2008

Riise Out, Abidal In At Anfield?


Recent reports have suggested Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez will be looking to spend up to £10 million on Barcelona's Eric Abidal, to replace the troubled John Arne Riise, who may be on his way to Newcastle United.

With Liverpool constantly being linked with players to strengthen their full-back positions, Eric Abidal is the latest name to be thrown into the hat.

The French international has had a hit-and-miss debut season with Barcelona, and it is rumoured he could be allowed to leave, with the Blaugrana looking to bring in Dani Alves to play at right-back, and if Gianluca Zambrotta ends up staying at Camp Nou, then he would fill the void on the left.

The player himself did not dismiss the possibility of a move, and indeed suggested it could happen if it is what the club decides is best.

“There is change in all clubs and it’s correct we’ve not had an entirely successful season, for now I’m here, if ever the club chooses to sell me, we’ll see,” he is reported to have said.

Meanwhile John Arne Riise, whose form has declined in the past few seasons, seemingly put the nail in his coffin with the comical own goal in the final minute of the first leg of the Champions League semi-final against Chelsea, that arguably proved to be the turning point in the tie that saw the Blues through to the final in Moscow.

Newcastle, who are looking to rebuild their squad over the summer, are looking for a quality left-back, and are now being linked with Riise.

Claims are being made that a £4 million deal was reached six weeks ago, and that he will sign a three-year deal worth around £30,000 a week at the north-east club.

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