Wednesday, June 18, 2008

James Milner Price Set To Cool Liverpool's Interest


Liverpool could end their pursuit of James Milner if Newcastle United hold out for more than £7million for the winger.

The 22-year-old has been tracked by Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez as he seeks to strengthen his flanks, with a player-plus-cash offer involving Danny Guthrie his preferred option.

But suggestions that Kevin Keegan, who is due back from holiday in America, will look to push Milner’s valuation up to £9million look set to cool Benitez’s interest.

The other issue clouding the deal at St James’ Park is the changes that were confirmed in the boardroom yesterday, with chairman Chris Mort stepping down and Derek Llambias taking the new title of managing director.

Sources in the north east claim that owner Mike Ashley will take a more hands-on chairman-like role and is due to discuss plans for next season’s squad building this week.

With Newcastle yet to make any close season signings, their balancing act between letting one of their prize assets go against raising transfer funds is set to be high on the agenda.

But as is policy for a player unproven at European and international level, Benitez will not pay more than what he believes Milner is worth, which is £5m before Guthrie is factored in.

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