Chelsea striker Nicolas Anelka and defender Alex have both been linked with a move to Liverpool after handing in transfer requests and telling manager Andre Villas-Boas that they want to leave the club.
The Portuguese boss has told the unhappy pair that they can no longer train with the first team and that the players can leave as soon as the January transfer window opens.
"The conversation was fair and direct with the players," replied Villas-Boas after being questioned on the duo's future. "They are top professionals and their professionalism and integrity is never in question but on recent results and form we have decided to try to get the group together and we have decided to assign different training times for them.
"The transfer requests were accepted but it doesn't mean it will happen and if it doesn't happen they will return to full training."
Liverpool have been linked with a move for Anelka as director of football Damien Comolli attempts to convince the striker to return to Anfield, nine years after a relatively unsuccessful loan spell.
The Reds are in need of another forward as they attempt to push for a top four finish and realise that they will be able to get the Frenchman for a nominal fee with his contract expiring at the end of the season.
Kenny Dalglish will certainly face plenty of competition for the striker with Russian sides Terek Grozny and Anzhi Makhachkala both desperate to land Anelka.
While the club is hoping to land Anelka, they are also reportedly interested in bringing Alex to the club as well. The Brazilian would bring plenty of experience and provide back-up for the likes of Daniel Agger, Martin Skrtel and Jamie Carragher.
Liverpool also believe they can pick up the pair for a relatively low fee as Chelsea no longer see them as first team regulars.
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