Friday, June 20, 2008

Rafa To Give Up On Barry For New Targets?

Rafa Benitez may be considering ripping up his plans for the summer after growing exasperated with the 'ludicrous' fees demanded for his original transfer targets.

Both The Daily Mirror and Guardian claim that Benitez has added the name of David Silva to his wish-list despite previous indications that buying the £20m-rated Spanish star would be beyond Liverpool's means. The disclosure that Benitez is interested in signing the Spaniard may signal a dramatic shift in focus or could be an act of brinkmanship from the Spaniard after being repeatedly rebuffed in his attempts to sign Gareth Barry.

Liverpool's latest bid for the midfielder was rejected late last week and if they shelved their interest then Villa would be in an invidious position. Although Barry has confirmed his determination to leave, Liverpool are, as yet, the only club to make an offer for his services. Despite speculation to the contrary, neither Arsenal nor Chelsea have showed any interest in acquiring the Villa captain.

Were Benitez to use the money earmarked for the purchase of Barry in order to pursue Silva then the player may look favourably on a transfer to Anfield. The player is described as being 'close' to Liverpool's chief scout, Eduardo Macia, who coached him through Valencia's youth system, while cash-strapped Valencia could be persuaded to sell for less than £20m.

Benitez's own money problems are easing, with his coffers increased by £4m this week following the sale of John Arne Riise to Roma. Scott Carson, Peter Crouch and Jermaine Pennant are also available for transfer.

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