Cesc And Xabi Alonso The Odd-men Out For Spain

Cesc Fabregas and Xabi Alonso are likely to be on the reserves bench when Spain plays its opening game at the European Championship against Russia on Tuesday.

Spain coach Luis Aragones held the team's first full practice march session at the team's base camp at Stubai valley on Saturday with the expected starting 11 winning 5-1 over the backups thanks to David Villa's three goals.

Fabregas looked frustrated throughout the session despite insisting earlier that he would accept a substitute's role.

"I'll play when I'm called, I'm here to help the national squad to go the furthest possible," said Fabregas, the scorer of the backup side's lone goal. "If you come off the bench, you can always make the difference in a game. I have to be ready for that moment when the coach calls."

The 21-year-old Fabregas has won the FA Cup with Arsenal, while Alonso also has an FA Cup to go with his 2005 Champions League medal with Liverpool. Spain is looking to add to its tally of one major football trophy - this same competition 44 years ago.

Spain faces Russia at Innsbruck, Austria, before playing Sweden and defending champion Greece in Group D.

Fernando Torres and Villa, who has shaken off an injury scare that forced him out of Wednesday's friendly against the United States, will be up front and expect service from wingers Andres Iniesta and David Silva and central midfielders Xavi Hernandez and Marcos Senna.

"The first game of a competition like the Euro is always the hardest. It's very important to start with a win," midfielder Ruben de la Red said. "If you win that first game, everything else is much easier."

It wasn't four years ago. Spain opened Euro 2004 with a 1-0 win over the Russians, but it drew its next game against Greece before being knocked out of the tournament after a defeat to host Portugal.

Russia is coached by Guus Hiddink, a Dutchman who has led every team he's coached at a major championship out of the group phase.

"We have to worry about our own game. We shouldn't be worried about our rival," Silva said. "The most important thing is us."

Aragones has a full roster after Sergio Garcia returned from a quadriceps problem to train with the team for the first time since it arrived at the small moutainside village outside Innsbruck.

The 69-year-old Aragones led the Spanish through some light training in the morning, with the drills sometimes looking closer to breakdancing.

"That's worth a photo!" yelled one spectator.

The sight of Fabregas shadow boxing with Carles Puyol was enough to draw two young girls on horseback over to the fence to watch.

Premiership Pair Named In Brazil Squad

Anderson and Lucas are among 12 overseas-based players named by Brazil coach Dunga to play in a warm-up game for the Olympics on June 22.

Brazil are yet to announce an opponent or venue for the game, but that did not stop Dunga releasing an initial squad following Friday night's shock 2-0 loss to Venezuela in Foxborough in the USA.

Real Madrid's Robinho, 24, is the only player in the group of 12 who would fill one of the three over-age slots if he is named in the final squad for the Games.

Squad: Alves (Almeria); Rafinha (Schalke), Filipe (Deportivo la Coruna), Leonardo (Olympiakos), Breno (Bayern Munich); Lucas (Liverpool), Anderson (Manchester United), Diego (Werder Bremen), Fernandinho (Shakhtar Donetsk); Pato (Milan), Sobis (Real Betis), Robinho (Real Madrid).

Torres Relishing Cesc Partnership

Fernando Torres believes his partnership with Cesc Fabregas this summer could see Spain crowned European champions for the first time since 1964.

Although the pair are fierce rivals during the Premier League season when Liverpool and Arsenal go head-to-head, the former Atletico Madrid striker loves playing with the Gunners playmaker.

Torres' pace and movement make him a handful for any defence and he is relishing the prospect of playing alongside Cesc this summer, a player who he knows will put the ball exactly where he wants it.

Although Spain are often perceived as the perennial under-achievers when it comes to major tournaments, Torres is confident everything will come together for Luis Aragones' side this summer.

"Playing with Cesc is like a dream. He understands the way I move and where I want the ball," Torres told the Sun.

"It's so easy and it gives me great confidence. We all know that Cesc is already one of the best midfielders in the world.

"It's easy to play with someone who has vision but also the ability to put the ball exactly where he wants.

"He spots my runs and sends the ball right in front of me. I am confident it will all come together for us in the European Championships.

"Our understanding on the pitch is great. Spain has great quality and Cesc is among the best in the world.

"We hope he comes forth in the Euro and is at the level he's used to performing for Arsenal. It's a luxury to be able to play with him.

"I hope this is Spain's year. The great thing for us, though, is we don't just have Cesc. Xavi is a huge player as well."

Carragher: Spain Do Not Have The Pace To Win

Jaime Carragher has revealed that he has told his Spanish team-mates that he is not expecting them to win Euro 2008 because of the lack of pace in Luis Aragonés' team.

The Liverpool defender explained that he made no bones about his lack of faith in la Selección and explained that to Fernando Torres, Xabi Alonso, Alvaro Arbeloa and Pepe Reina.

Instead, the England international is backing France or Italy to take the glory in Austria and Switzerland this summer.

"For me it's the same two usual contenders: France and Italy," he told LFC Magazine. "I'm always a big admirer of the French. They have a lot of players with African origins who have learned to play football in France and that's a really good combination.
"They always have plenty of pace in their team too. That's a huge advantage, especially when teams get tired due to the heat and with so many games in a short space of time.

"I always tell the Spanish lads there's not enough pace in the team. Obviously they've got Fernando Torres but apart from him there is no-one else really with that level of speed you need.

"They also lack something in terms of strength. At least that's what I tell them all the time. I'm sure they'll be out to prove me wrong but I don't think it will happen."

Despite not believing that the Spain team can triumph, Carragher does think that Torres can enhance his reputation even further at the tournament.

"I'm sure Fernando will be one of the favourites to be top scorer at Euro 2008," he added.

"He's probably the top striker in the world at the moment and will go into the tournament full of confidence."

Aston Villa's Martin O'Neill Resigned To Losing Gareth Barry To Liverpool

Martin O’Neill has reportedly admitted defeat after weeks spent trying to fend off Liverpool in their attempts to sign his captain Gareth Barry.

Despite seeing his club come sixth in the league last season and qualify for the Intertoto Cup, it is understood that Barry has become increasingly determined to perform at Champions League level, especially after playing, and captaining, England in Trinidad. Performing at the highest plateau in Europe is a pre-requisite, he believes, for carving out a long-term international role.

As such, the chances of Barry remaining at Villa Park are looking progressively slim. O’Neill recently played down Villa’s immediate chances of reaching Champions League – a thinly veiled acceptance that the club and Barry’s most pressing ambitions no longer dovetail. Villa will demand more than the £10 million players-plus-cash deal that Rafael Benitez offered last month, with their asking price said to be in the region of £14 million.

Liverpool, for their part, have begun clearing the decks ahead of Barry’s arrival. Xavi Alonso has been given permission to move to Juventus, although negotiations have been beset by Liverpool’s failure to find common ground with the Italian club over their method of payment. The Turin club are demanding that they be allowed to pay the £16 million fee in instalments over three years.

However, the Liverpool board desperately need to free up accessible cash to fund the Barry move. Benitez is currently trying to offload Peter Crouch to Portsmouth for £10 million, although that deal is also proving harder to bring to conclusion than first thought. Benitez has instead proposed sending Crouch to Villa, a suggestion given short shrift by the 6ft 7in striker.

Finally, Liverpool are expected to firm up their deal with Italian defender Andrea Dossena today ahead of his wedding at the weekend. The Udinese player will arrive on Merseyside for the tune of £7 million.

Liverpool Linked To Valencia's David Villa And David Silva

Liverpool have been put on alert after Valencia revealed the club will listen to “serious” offers for David Villa and David Silva.

Spain striker Villa has been linked to a host of top clubs across Europe, including the Reds, while midfielder Silva is also being monitored by a host to English sides.

An exodus of Valencia’s top players has been predicted as the club look to solve some of the financial trouble caused by the sizeable pay-off to sacked coach Ronald Koeman and problems with the construction of a new stadium.

“For us they (Villa and Silva) are fundamental players but it’s not down to me to say who plays and how,” said president Agustin Morera.

“If very serious offers come in they will be looked at if (technical secretary Juan Gines) Sanchez and (head coach Unai) Emery think it’s convenient.

“If not they’ll say that these players can’t leave because they are important. We’ll do what’s best for the club.”

Torres Desperate For Euro Silverware

Spain striker Fernando Torres is eyeing Euro 2008 glory to help him get over his Champions League semi-final heartbreak with Liverpool.

Torres came within touching distance of capping a memorable first season at Anfield with a Champions League final appearance, but agonizingly missed out after a 4-3 aggregate loss to Chelsea in the last four.

That meant Torres, despite netting 33 competitive goals following his big-money move from Atletico Madrid, ended his maiden campaign at Liverpool without any major honors.

Liverpool's loss could be Spain's gain though, with the 24-year-old hitman desperate to win some silverware this summer.

I have a lot of confidence following this season, and with a lot of desire to be able to finish the season with a title,'' he said.

The semi-finals of the Champions League have left a bad taste in the mouth, we were close to winning the Champions League and you could taste what it could be like to win such an important title.

It was not to be though and now this (Euro 2008) is the last opportunity to finish with a title of this nature.

It will be what I have always dreamed of - a great season and a great end.'' Opinion is divided on Spain’s chances of winning this summer s European Championships.

While few doubt they have the ability and the players to walk off with the big prize, Spain's history and reputation for underachieving on the biggest stages casts a heavy shadow over the team.

The Iberian nation have only conquered Europe once in their history, when they won on home soil in 1964, and since then have only managed to get beyond the quarter-finals on one occasion.

Spain are still among the favorites to win the title this summer, but Torres does not believe they are top-dogs heading into the competition.

I don't think so. The favorites are those who have shown that they can win, who have done it many times. France, Germany, Italy - they have won several tournaments and they are the ones who have to take this tag,'' Torres said.

I don’t think being favorites does anything other than means you have added pressure and if at the end you do not win there are more critics."

Torres Tells Liverpool's Feuding Owners To Start Spending

Fernando Torres wants to be surrounded by more stars at Liverpool, urging feuding owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett Jr. to start spending more.

"In order to compete with Manchester United and Chelsea, if we can't keep up with them economically, then we have to get it absolutely right in the transfer market,'' the Spain striker was quoted as saying in an interview published on journalist Guillem Balague's Web site.

"It's clear that they have a lot of 20 or 25 million pound (US$40 or 50 million; £25-32 million) players, and that difference is what separates us in the league table,'' Torres said.”I hope that the club does what needs to be done and we can quickly catch them up.''

Liverpool finished fourth in Torres' debut season in the Premier League and was ousted in the Champions League semifinals by Chelsea.

The season was marred by a dispute between the club's American owners, who have struggled to agree on anything since January and have often criticized the other through media interviews.

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard blamed the rift for hindering the Reds' bid to win the English title for the first time since 1990.

"It may have had more of an effect upon my teammates,'' Torres said.”But the truth is, that between the language and the fact that I don't pay much attention to that stuff, or to any of the problems, that it hasn't affected me.''

Torres witnessed turmoil during his Atletico Madrid career.

One training session in 2006 was interrupted by fans invading the pitch to demand the firing of the coach and club president. A potential move from the Vicente Calderon stadium, which sits on prime real estate land, caused further ructions in the boardroom.

"At Atletico Madrid I saw how even smaller problems can affect everyone at the club, right down to the last employee, and that can be damaging,'' Torres said. "This (Liverpool) is a big club that knows how to isolate you from those issues in order to stay competitive.''

When Torres returns from the European Championship, he is expecting a tougher season at Liverpool after 24 league goals in his first season.

"The second season is always the more difficult,'' Torres said.”People know all about me now, although I know more about my opponents as well, and I know how to take advantage of their weaknesses.

"But there's no doubt that I will have to account for the fact that I am better known from now on.''

Dossena Delight At Reds Deal

Andrea Dossena is delighted to become the first Italian international to play for Liverpool

The Udinese left-back will complete his move to Anfield in the coming days after undergoing a medical on Merseyside earlier this week.

Speaking exclusively to skysports.com, Dossena's agent Federico Pastorello revealed his client's delight at signing for Liverpool.

"I understand he is the first Italian international to play for Liverpool - a great opportunity for him and he is really happy," Pastorello revealed.

Dossena is expected to finalise his transfer in the next 48 hours before being unveiled by The Reds next week in a deal believed to be worth around £7million.

"He had his medical on Wednesday and we are just awaiting the formalities of that but we would think everything will be signed very shortly," he continued.

"An agreement between the clubs was hard, but we all found it and everything is now ready."

The 26-year-old had a tremendous campaign with Udinese, which included his debut for Italy, and Pastorello admits Liverpool beat a number of clubs to seal his signature.

"There were many teams interested in him," he confirmed.

"He was the best left-back in Italy last year, arguably along with the boy [Juan]Vargas at Catania.

"So it was natural that there will be interest in the best left-back in Serie A, but to have the chance to work with a coach like Rafa Benitez was something he could not turn down.

"That was an important aspect of his decision and he cannot wait to get started."

Tom Hicks Slams Talk Of Stadium Share

Tom Hicks today hit back at claims Liverpool could be willing to share a stadium with Everton.

Reports today suggested Liverpool’s American owners might be ready to change their stance on a ground share at the behest of North West Development Agency chief executive Steve Broomhead.

But Hicks insists a shared stadium is not on Liverpool’s agenda and has no interest in even considering it.

He also dismissed speculation that a meeting is scheduled with the NWDA to discuss the matter, as did Broomhead himself who revealed the talks which are due to take place with representatives of Kop Holdings next week will not include discussions about the possibility of Liverpool and Everton moving in together.

A spokesman for Hicks told the ECHO: “There is no interest in a shared stadium and no planned meeting to discuss this.”

Broomhead will hold talks with Kop Holdings next Friday in a bid to clarify funding issues over Liverpool’s planned new stadium on Stanley Park.

The original plans for Liverpool’s £300m ground included building work to begin last year, but the scheme was revised and the construction start delayed.

Now, as the credit crunch on both sides of the Atlantic continues to bite, the NWDA is seeking an update on Liverpool’s plans.

The agency has pledged to provide funding for important improvements to community facilities surrounding the new ground.

Broomhead said: “The meeting is to update me on where Liverpool FC and Kop Holdings are with the plans to fund the new stadium.

“I want to clarify where the funding is for the new Anfield.”

Broomhead is also closely involved with Everton’s controversial proposed move from Goodison to Kirkby, which is being funded by supermarket giant Tesco but subject to vehement objections from neighbouring local authorities and retailers.

However, he denied that the subject of a shared stadium by the two clubs which is favoured by Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley but rejected by both Everton and Liverpool is on next Friday’s agenda.

Broomhead, who confirmed that neither Hicks nor George Gillett will attend the briefing, said: “I am only interested in the economic benefits of improved sports facilities for Merseyside.”

Everton chief executive Keith Wyness also poured cold water on the speculation, saying: “I can categorically state that a shared stadium is not on the agenda of either club.”

Anfield US Owners Tom Hicks And George Gillett In Liverpool-Everton Shared Stadium Talks

The chief executive of the North West Development Agency has called for a "fundamental economic appraisal" of a shared stadium between Everton and Liverpool football clubs.

Steve Broomhead told the Liverpool Daily Post the idea needed to be looked at, given the current economic climate.

He is due to meet with Kop Holdings, Tom Hicks's and George Gillett's company, which owns Liverpool FC, next week. "More and more, it looks like if we are to upgrade the sporting stadiums for Merseyside, the ground sharing option has to go back on the table," Mr Broomhead said

"A fundamental economic appraisal of a ground share is needed."

Mr Broomhead said he had seen little progress at Anfield in raising money for the new stadium.

His call follows that of Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley, who last week said the idea of a shared ground should be explored.

Last night, Everton FC chief executive Keith Wyness said he had discussed the issue with Liverpool FC chief executive Rick Parry at a Football Association meeting in Leicestershire and a shared stadium "was not on the agenda of either club".

But last night a spokesman for Liverpool FC declined to comment.

Mr Broomhead's intervention follows Liverpool, Sefton, West Lancashire, and St Helens councils opposing Everton FC's plan to relocate to Kirkby.

The £400m scheme, which includes a Tesco superstore and 50 shops, will go before Knowsley council's planning committee on Monday.

The huge amount of opposition to the scheme and the fact it runs contrary to town centre and retail policies, increases the likelihood of the Government calling a public inquiry.

Last night, Mr Broomhead would not be drawn on whether the plans should be "called in" for a public inquiry.

Meanwhile, Liverpool FC received planning permission for a new £350m, 60,000-seater stadium on Stanley Park last month.

The club is understood to have £60m to get started on the new ground, but work is yet to start.

Mr Broomhead said: "We continue to watch this with interest. We are not seeing any real progress at Anfield in raising the money for the new stadium.

"I have been invited to discussions at the end of next week with Kop Holdings."

He said he was looking forward to hearing about the ownership of the club and financing for a new stadium on Stanley Park.

"We also continue to talk with Everton FC and Tesco."

He said the agency continued to support both Liverpool FC and Everton FC in their endeavours to build new stadia.

"But you have to wonder about the vast amounts of money being spent, given the current market conditions for investment."

Last night, Mr Wyness said: "Having discussed the matter with my Liverpool counterpart Rick Parry, I can categorically state that a shared stadium is not on the agenda of either club.

"We have a series of criteria which any prospective stadium must meet, and a shared stadium does not meet that criteria.

"When Mr Hicks and Mr Gillett took over Liverpool FC, they made it perfectly clear they were not interested."

He said he still believed that moving to Kirkby was the only viable option for Everton Football Club.

Liverpool council leader Warren Bradley said: "The idea seems to be gathering momentum, and a lot of people are looking at it.

"I think the feasibility should at least be looked at."

Liverpool Labour opposition leader Joe Anderson said the idea would have been "inconceivable" 18 months ago.

"The fact is we have got to work in the real world and both clubs are struggling financially.

"Maybe that's uncomfortable for both clubs and fans, but it is something that should be considered."

Liverpool Go Cool On Aaron Ramsey

Liverpool’s interest in Aaron Ramsey is unlikely to lead to a formal offer being made for the Welsh wonderkid.

The Reds have monitored Ramsey’s progress for more than a year and Rafa Benitez is an admirer of his obvious talent but the Liverpool manager knows his priority is to improve the first team this summer and is reluctant to spend a sizeable chunk of his transfer budget on a teenager with just 22 games to his name.

Cardiff City have accepted bids in the region of £5m for the 17-year-old midfielder from Man United, Everton and Arsenal but at that price, Liverpool’s interest is likely to cool.

Benitez has identified several areas of his squad which he is keen to strengthen with the full-back and wide positions being top of his list and Liverpool’s transfer activity will be centred on those areas.

Philipp Degen has already been snapped up and Liverpool are waiting for the formalities of Andrea Dossena’s medical to be completed before finalising his transfer from Udinese.

The £7m fee Liverpool have agreed with Udinese is based on an up front payment of £6m with add-ons and incentives.

Though Benitez would like to be able to move for Ramsey he is not willing to sacrifice other transfer targets whom he feels will have a more immediate impact.

As the Reds boss reshapes his squad ahead of the forthcoming campaign there is no shortage of interest in those members of his squad who have fallen out of favour.

Portsmouth boss Harry Redknapp has admitted for the first time that he would like to take Peter Crouch back to Fratton Park, although he is unwilling to meet Benitez’s £15m asking price.

While Roma have firmed up their long standing interest in John Arne Riise with an opening offer for the Norwegian only for it to fall short of Liverpool’s valuation.

Redknapp said: “I don’t know if the avenue for Peter Crouch is shut or not. If Liverpool are asking £15m for him it is certainly shut.

“I like Peter, but he belongs to Liverpool at the moment.

“If the price is right something could happen. If they wanted £10m it would certainly be more interesting. We do need another front man.”

Meanwhile, Steve Finnan has revealed he is considering coming out of international retirement to play for new Republic of Ireland boss Giovanni Trapattoni.

The Ireland manager is keen to persuade the Reds right back to return to the international fold and Finnan says he is planning to hold talks with Trapattoni.

“We’re going to have a chat,” he said. “When a new manager comes in that's normal, and out of respect you have to do so.

“The opportunity to work with someone of that experience is very tempting. He's got a great CV and he’s done really well at lots of clubs. Everyone in my position would consider it.

“No deadline's been put on making a final decision but I take it he'll want to know before the first World Cup qualifier.”

Rafa Benitez Steps Up Chase For David Bentley

With Gareth Barry expected at Anfield next week to fulfil his desire for Champions League football, Rafael Benitez is expected to step up his chase for another England international in David Bentley.

Bentley is believed to have been unsettled at Ewood Park for several months after he was left with nearly a full season without European football following Blackburn’s early exit from the Uefa Cup at the hands of Greek minnows Larissa.

With FA Cup winners Portsmouth and Carling Cup winners Tottenham finishing below the Lancastrians in the Premier League table, a seventh-place finish was not good enough to get Rovers back into continental competition again next season – even via the Intertoto Cup.

This week’s departure of manager Mark Hughes to Manchester City – another side who have finished below Blackburn but will be tasting Europe this summer via the Fair Play League – is set to spark an exodus of several major names at Ewood Park and Bentley is set to be leading the queue at the exit door.

Benitez is finally expected to snare Villa skipper Barry, who has served the Midlands club for 11 years, next week with the midfielder now back from international duty in Trinidad where he scored his first goal for his country.

The Anfield manager has already prepared for Barry’s arrival by allowing his compatriot Xabi Alonso to leave the club with the Spanish international having agreed terms over a move to Italians Juventus although the two clubs are yet to formalise a fee which could vary between £14-16m.

With the expected £10m plus deal for Barry potentially cancelled out by possible moves in the opposite direction for Peter Crouch, Scott Carson or even John Arne Riise, Benitez, who expects to tie up a move for Andrea Dossena today ahead of the Italian full-back’s wedding this weekend, will be expecting a considerable warchest from the club’s American owners to land a big name like Bentley to attempt to close the gap on Manchester United who can potentially equal Liverpool’s record of 18 League Championships with a title victory next May.

Since arriving from Valencia in 2004, where he won two domestic Spanish titles, Benitez, despite his success in European competition, has struggled to mount a serious charge for the Premier League crown.

That fact, combined with the looming threat from Fifa president Sepp Blatter that club sides may soon be forced to field six nationals in their starting line-ups, has prompted the Spaniard to try and attract more high profile English players to Anfield.

On average, Liverpool had just two English players – Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard – in their starting line-up last season, a figure which was the second lowest in the Premier League after Arsenal.

Ironically, Bentley, 23, who is now one of the hottest properties in the Premier League and regarded as the long term successor to David Beckham, left the Gunners after becoming frustrated at a lack of first team opportunities under Arsene Wenger whose multinational squads feature few homegrown stars.

Meanwhile, one of Liverpool’s big success stories from overseas, Fernando Torres, who netted 33 goals in his debut season at Anfield, has revealed that he believes Premier League centre-halves tend to rely on brut force rather than skill although he believes there is at least one exception among his opponents.

He said: "John Terry is captain (At Chelsea) so gets a much higher profile. But he’s only secondary to (Ricardo) Carvalho.

"The central defenders (in the Premier League) are usually big, strong, aggressive lads but Ricky is superb. He has every quality that is needed."

The Spanish striker, who eclipsed Ruud van Nistelrooy’s record for the most goals by a foreign striker in his debut Premier League campaign, certainly had the measure of most of the defences he has declared that a lot of his success is down to an unfamiliar source – Liverpool goalkeeping coach Xavi Valero.

"We’ve a Spanish goalkeeping coach and he has been a genius at telling me every week exactly what kind of task lies in front of me in the following match," said Torres.

"Nobody has ever worked with me like this before. It’s outstanding. Basically, I know days before the next game exactly the best way to finish a chance against the keeper I’m about to face.

"Xavi Valero tells me precisely what each keeper tends to do – stay big, go down early, if they have a preferred side they try to push you to. It’s vital information. I’ve refined the way I take chances as a result.

"This Liverpool side also works its socks off. Dirk Kuyt, for example, is spectacular in how cleverly and how hard he works to make sure I get top-quality possession near goal."

Liverpool Face Competition For Thiago

Monaco have declared their firm interest in Brazilian defender Thiago Silva, who is also reported to be a target for Rafa Benitez's Liverpool.

Thiago has been in stellar form for Fluminese, and his rapid development has not gone unnoticed by Carlos Dunga, who has rewarded him with call-ups to the national squad.

Monaco boss Ricardo, a former Fluminese player himself,had this to say about the highly promising 23-year-old: "He is a huge player, an ace.

"If we can attract him at Monaco, we will be good in defence. I will do my best to have him."

If Thiago does opt to sign for the French Principality club, they would actually become his third European team. In 2004, FC Porto signed the player, but he ended up being sold to Dynamo Moscow after one year of play in the second team.

Milan, Villarreal and Bayer Leverkusen are also known to be keen on Thiago, along with his former club Porto and their Portuguese rivals Benfica.

Redknapp Won't Pay Over The Odds

Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp insists he will not be held to ransom over a summer move for Liverpool striker Peter Crouch.

Liverpool have slapped a £15million price tag on the England international, a fee which Portsmouth are refusing to pay.

Redknapp admits he is keen to bring the striker back for a second spell at Fratton Park, but will not pay over the odds in order to get his man.

Crouch is desperate to find regular first-team football, while Pompey are keen to boost their attacking options.

"I don't know if the avenue for Peter Crouch is shut or not," Redknapp told The News.

"If Liverpool are asking £15m for him it is certainly shut.

"I like Peter, but he belongs to Liverpool at the moment.

"If the price is right something could happen. If they wanted £10m it would certainly be more interesting. We do need another front man.

"At the moment we have David Nugent, Kanu and Jermain Defoe. We need another one up there, at least.

"You need to have at least four strikers. So I need another good one up there."

Redknapp confirmed that his search for new faces has been restricted to the domestic market so far, but refused to rule out the possibility of branching further afield in an attempt to find players of the required quality at a price the club can afford.

"We're looking around at a few things at the moment," he said.

"We are still making enquiries. They have mostly been at home in England, to be honest.

"We are seeing what is possible."

Liverpool Stay In Hunt For Ramsey

Liverpool are considering challenging for Aaron Ramsey’s signature after the Cardiff youngster’s move to Manchester United was thrown into doubt last night.

United announced they had snapped up for the 17-year-old winger before Cardiff issued a swift response denying a deal had been done. Arsenal joined the chase after City gave permission for £5million-rated Ramsey to open contract talks with Barclays Premier League clubs.

Liverpool are understood to have made an initial offer that fell short of that valuation, but are now considering a deal involving cash and a season’s loan of two youngsters, wide men Paul Anderson and Adam Hammill.

“We can confirm that on Tuesday, June 3, Cardiff City have received formal bids from three top Premier League teams for Aaron Ramsey and that he has been given permission to speak to two of these teams,” said a Cardiff statement. “One of these teams is Manchester United, as has been reported, although at this stage we can confirm that no deal has been done and the player has not yet agreed terms.

“More details will be made available as they are released to us.”

Ramsey, who has also interested Everton, has been labelled the next Ryan Giggs – something Manchester United were predictably only too keen to rush out when they released an official statement on their website.

It read: “Manchester United is delighted to announce it has agreed terms with Cardiff City for the transfer of Aaron Ramsey, subject to contract terms being agreed and the player passing a medical.

“Ramsey, who has attracted plenty of interest from the best clubs in England, is considered one of his country’s brightest prospects in recent years and follows in an impressive line of left-sided Welsh players, including Gareth Bale and his idol, Ryan Giggs.”

Cardiff manager Dave Jones said: “Whatever happens, the move must be right for Aaron.

“I am sure he will make the right decision.

“When it came to this deal, we have always maintained that, of course, it had to be right for Cardiff City, but it also had to be the right move to continue Aaron’s development.

“He will become one of the best Welsh international players in history, but it is up to the kid now.”

Caerphilly-born Ramsey came to prominence this season and played his part in the Welsh club’s run to last month’s FA Cup final, which they lost to Portsmouth.

He overtook John Toshack as Cardiff’s youngest-ever senior player when he came on aged just 16 years and 123 days against Hull the season before last.

He was called up by national coach Toshack for Wales’ friendlies in Iceland and Holland last week, but is still to win his first senior cap.

Andrea Dossena Flies In To Sign Liverpool FC Deal

Andrea Dossena was today undergoing a medical ahead of his expected £7m move to Liverpool.

The Italian left back is due to get married this weekend but such is his desire to sign for the Reds he has taken time out from his wedding preparations to fly to Merseyside to undergo his medical.

A fee in the region of £7m has been agreed with Udinese and terms have also been agreed with the player who was revealed as Rafa Benitez's number one target for the left back position last month.

The deal to sign him was held up by Udinese's initial demands with the Serie A club seeking up to £8m for the 26-year-old but a compromise has now been reached and, barring any last minute hitches, Dossena will become Liverpool's second signing of the summer following the arrival of Swiss right back Philipp Degen.

Dossena's agent Federico Pastorello admitted: "Everything is confirmed and we have already exchanged all the documents via fax. The deal is practically done."

Although Dossena has not made the Italian national squad for the forthcoming European Championships in Austria and Switzerland, he is considered one of the most improved players in Italy over the last 12 months and his impressive displays for Udinese led to him being awarded his first full cap in a friendly against South Africa last season.

His form alerted Benitez, who had made the recruitment of a top class left back one of his priorities for this summer.

With the out of favour John Arne Riise having been told he has no future at Anfield, the Reds boss is hopeful of recouping the majority of his outlay on Dossena by selling the Norwegian defender – with AS Roma and Newcastle leading the chase for his services.

Dossena only recently signed a new four and a half year deal with Udinese but that has not stopped Liverpool from coming to an agreement with his club and Benitez will be delighted that another piece of his summer rebuilding programme now looks set to fall into place.

Meanwhile, Fernando Torres is confident of being fit for Spain's start to Euro 2008 despite struggling with an ankle injury.

The 33-goal Reds marksman is hopeful of featuring in tonight's warm-up clash with the USA despite reports suggesting he could miss Spain's opening fixture against Russia on June 10.

Torres was replaced at half-time during last Saturday's 2-1 friendly win over Peru in Huelva after complaining of an ankle problem.

"My ankle is fine. It was touch and go the other day, but it's gradually improving," he revealed.

"We'll see, but at the moment I think that I'll have no problems for the USA match. The coach decides, but the important thing is that we prepare for the Euros as well as possible."

Aston Villa Edge Ahead In Race To Sign Peter Crouch

Aston Villa are edging ahead in the race to sign Peter Crouch - as Portsmouth manager Harry Redknapp officially declared his interest in the Liverpool forward.

The Midlanders are considering taking Crouch back to Villa Park in a deal that could finally pave the way for Gareth Barry’s departure to Anfield.

Martin O’Neill is reluctant to lose his captain but with Liverpool lining up their next bid, the Villa manager is believed to be willing to accept Crouch as part of a £15million package.

Crouch has previously been tipped to return to another of his former clubs, Portsmouth – but Redknapp admits he is being priced out in the current climate.

“I don’t know if the avenue for Peter Crouch is shut or not,” Redknapp said.

“If Liverpool are asking £15m for him it is certainly shut.

“I like Peter, but he belongs to Liverpool at the moment.

“If the price is right something could happen. If they wanted £10million it would certainly be more interesting. We do need another front man.

“At the moment we have David Nugent, Kanu and Jermain Defoe. We need another one up there, at least.

“You need to have at least four strikers. So I need another good one up there.”

Liverpool are willing to cash in on Crouch while he seeks the type of regular first-team football manager Rafael Benitez is unable to guarantee him.

Newcastle are also monitoring the situation as they have long and short-term doubts over all their current crop of forwards and he also saw his top target Dean Ashton committing his future to West Ham by signing a new five-year deal last night.

He is also hoping to raise the funds to bring John Arne Riise from his former club.

Also close to the Anfield exit is Xabi Alonso, whose agent has claimed further talks are planned between Liverpool and Juventus with a view to the Spain international moving to Serie A.

Ignacio Ibanez said: “Juventus have expressed an interest in acquiring Xabi. The clubs have spoken and they will speak again.

“But it’s down to Liverpool to decide whether they want to sell the player or not. From my part I am waiting to see what happens.”

Alonso was one of Benitez’s first signings when he took over as manager four years ago, arriving for £10.5million from Real Sociedad.

He will feature for Spain in Euro 2008 before finalising any potential move.

One piece of business that has been done between Liverpool and an Italian club is the signing of left-back Andrea Dossena.

His £7million move will be completed after he took his medical on Merseyside yesterday.

The player’s agent, Federico Pastorello, said: “Everything is confirmed and we have already exchanged documents via fax. The deal is practically done.”

Torres Unimpressed By Defenders

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres has hailed Chelsea's Ricardo Carvalho as the best defender in the Premier League.

The Spaniard enjoyed a superb first season in the Premier League but he believes his job was made easier by some poor defending.

He found most of the centre-backs he came across to be more brawn than brains, and admits he was able to capitalise on some careless mistakes.

One exception was Carvalho, who Torres feels does not get the credit he deserves.

Torres rates the Portugal international above his Chelsea team-mate John Terry and thinks he is one of the most impressive defenders in world football.

"Terry is captain so gets a much higher profile. But he's only secondary to Carvalho," Torres told The Sun.

"Ricky is superb. He has every quality that is needed."

Torres added: "The central defenders (in the Premier League) are usually big, strong, aggressive lads.

"I guess it is probably because of these characteristics that the majority think they can solve problems by getting tough with me.

"But the truth is most of them lack defensive positioning as a result of their reliance on strength and aggression and leave so much space for you to take advantage of."

Fernando Torres Can Supplant Raul To Become Spain's Goal-scoring Star At Euro 2008

With Raul finally out of the picture after all these years, having been controversially omitted from the Spain squad, Fernando Torres can't have any doubts that the hopes of a nation rest more heavily on his shoulders than ever before.

For if Luis Aragones' side are to fulfil their great promise by finally giving Spain something to shout about, a striker will need to produce. And no one is better qualified, or indeed in better form, than this quietly confident 24-year-old who has had a prolific debut season for Liverpool.

Mind you, the weight of expectation doesn't seem to overly bother him. Atletico Madrid's youngest captain at the age of 19 and now bearing the goalscoring brunt at Anfield, this baby-faced striker with a mentally tough streak seems to accept responsibility as comfortably as a spinning through-ball.

And when you look at the names backing him up in Austria and Switzerland, there shouldn't be a dearth of quality passes. Arsenal's Cesc Fabregas and the Barcelona pair of Xavi and Andres Iniesta can all slickly load the gun, as can clubmate Xabi Alonso.

'El Nino' might even get help up front from the hard-working David Villa if Aragones departs from the 4-3-3 shape that earned qualification. Yet those matches, plus his escapades for Liverpool, prove that Torres is more than capable of leading the line on his own, armed with a blistering turn of pace, sinewy strength and ruthless finishing ability.

It doesn't take a genius to work out, then, that if he comes out of the traps suitably prepared, if his movement and instincts prove as sharp as normal, he should cause an awful lot of problems to opponents. He should also enjoy better service than most of the forwards vying to finish as the tournament's top scorer.

You can actually get 11-1 on him coming out on top, which isn't a bad bet considering Greece, Russia and Sweden make up Group D. A couple of goals early on and Torres will quickly turn into the man everyone must stop.

Riise To Roma?

Reports from the continent claim Roma are preparing to pounce for Liverpool defender John Arne Riise.

The Norwegian left-back is uncertain of his future at Anfield, having fallen out of favour with manager Rafa Benitez over the last two seasons.

With Fabio Aurelio establishing himself as the Reds first choice on the left side of defence, and Andreas Dossena on the verge of joining from Udinese, Riise could well be shown the door this summer.

Many believe the 26-year-old’s fate was sealed during the Champions League semi-final against Chelsea, when he headed into his own net in the first leg and was at fault for Didier Drogba’s winner in the second leg.

Aston Villa and Newcastle have expressed interest in the former Monaco man, but sources in Italy suggest Roma could nip in with a ₤5million bid.

Giallorossi boss Luciano Spalletti is keen strengthen his defensive options ahead of next season, having identified both full-back slots as the team's major weakness.

Liverpool On Verge Of Dossena Signing

Liverpool are on the verge of signing Udinese full-back Andrea Dossena in a £7 million deal, according to the player's agent.

Although nothing has been officially announced as yet, Dossena can almost certainly be considered a Liverpool player according to his agent Federico Pastorello.

The 26-year-old full-back has been linked to the Reds for a long period and, despite a few hiccups in the negotiations with Udinese, he is expected to be playing at Anfield next season.

"Everything is confirmed and we have already exchanged all the documents via fax. The deal is practically done," Pastorello explained to Football Italia.

Udinese are expected to settle on an offer of just over £7 million from Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, with Dossena set to undergo a medical at Anfield on Wednesday afternoon.

Dossena is coming out of an outstanding campaign, where he was one of Serie A’s best full-backs. The left-back made 35 appearances, managing to score two goals and provide many assists for the Zebrette strikers.

However, the former Verona and Treviso player still wasn't able to make Italy boss Roberto Donadoni's Euro 2008 squad and will be hoping that a move to Anfield will boost his international credentials, having only earned one cap to date.

Liverpool boss Benitez has wasted little time setting about his transfer plans for the summer. Right-back Phillipp Degen has already been signed on a free transfer, and the signing of Dossena will ensure that both full-back positions have been strengthened.

Benitez has also made no secret in his desire to land Aston Villa's Gareth Barry this summer and is also reportedly ambitously chasing Ricardo Quaresma of FC Porto and Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery.

Gareth Barry Will Cost Liverpool £8m And Peter Crouch

Martin O'Neill wants £8million AND Peter Crouch for Gareth Barry.

That is what the Aston Villa manager will tell Liverpool when they make their improved offer for the England midfield star.

Anfield gaffer Rafa Benitez is poised to make a new bid for Barry after O'Neill dismissed his opening £10million offer, made up of cash and players.

O'Neill is determined to play hardball in the negotiations for his talisman and skipper, who has been at the club for more than a decade, and will only reluctantly let him go if he feels it is a good deal for Villa.

The Ulsterman feels Barry is worth at least £15m, following his best season for club and country, and is prepared to consider Crouch as a makeweight in any transaction.

But O'Neill's £7m valuation of Crouch is way below Benitez's stated asking price of £15m.

Benitez will want much more for the England striker - who is being eyed up by a number of other Premier League managers including Harry Redknapp at Portsmouth - even though he is set to cash in on Xabi Alonso's imminent move to Juventus.

Liverpool are willing to throw Jermaine Pennant into the mix, although O'Neill is reluctant to accept the former Birmingham winger as part of any deal.

Benitez is quietly confident of landing Barry, who linked up so well with Steven Gerrard for England, and O'Neill's bargaining position may not be as strong as he believes.

Barry, 27, has undermined him by admitting he is flattered by Liverpool's interest and that he would like to play in the Champions League.

The midfielder has also refused Villa's offer to make him the best-paid player in their history and could force O'Neill's hand after stating he wants his future resolved quickly.

Rafa Awarded Honorary Doctorate

Rafael Benitez is today being honoured in his homeland with an Honorary Doctorate from the Miguel Hernandez University (Elche) in the province of Alicante.

The Liverpool manager will be joined by his family for the ceremony on Wednesday afternoon.

The award is to recognise his stature as a coach and the way he uses scientific methodology in his training sessions.

Also expected to attend the event are celebrities from the world of sport and culture, as well as politicians from the academic field.

Before he receives his award, Benitez will meet up with students currently studying sports sciences at the UMH.

Benitez told Liverpoolfc.tv: "I'm really pleased and proud.

"The award is in recognition of a long career in football. It's not easy to spend so long in one career after you leave university and so I am delighted.

"Of course to have a long career you need the support of your family and the other people behind you on your staff. I've had that and been fortunate that everyone has been working really hard with me."

Manchester City Chief Lined Up As Parry Faces The Axe At Liverpool

The future of Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry looks uncertain after it emerged that his opposite number at Manchester City has been approached about his job.

Last season Liverpool co-owner Tom Hicks labelled Parry a failure and called on him to resign. Now the Hicks camp have asked Alistair Mackintosh if he would consider a switch.

With Mackintosh unsettled by life under Thaksin Shinawatra at City, a move to Liverpool would be attractive. The nature of his role at City is unclear after the appointment of executive chairman Gary Cook.

If Parry is to keep his job, he must hope that Hicks loses his power struggle with co-owner George Gillett. Hicks' plan to replace Parry will go through if he can persuade his business partner and former friend to sell his stake in Liverpool.

Mackintosh will be seen as a surprise choice in some quarters but it is understood that Hicks has been impressed by the manner in which the 37-year-old chief executive raised City's profile until the sale of the club to Thaksin by former chairman John Wardle last summer.

With Liverpool due to move to a new stadium in nearby Stanley Park in the coming years, Hicks also feels that Mackintosh's experience in relocating City to the City of Manchester Stadium could be a benefit.

Spain Fret As Torres Misses Training

Spanish international Fernando Torres was forced to miss training on Monday, after suffering a minor ankle injury in the 2-1 victory over Peru on Saturday.

Torres' absence was the biggest news in the Spanish camp on Monday. The Liverpool striker was unable to train with his team-mates after suffering a minor injury to his right ankle in the win over Peru.

The former Atletico Madrid hitman was restricted to the gymnasium, but the lethal striker should be available for Spain's final warm-up clash with the United States on Wednesday. Tests revealed the 24-year-old only has a minor ankle injury, and he should be back in action in no time.

Despite Torres' injury, the Spanish national team still completed an intense training session at the Ciudad del Futbol de La Rozas complex behind closed-doors. Luis Aragones divided the squad into two groups, defense and attack, as they underwent different kinds of exercises.

Aragones didn't provide the press with any details of who will turn out in their starting eleven against the United States on Wednesday. Still, a recovered Torres is expected to be in the team against America.

Spurs To Hijack Reds' Bentley Bid

Tottenham are set to hijack Liverpool's plans to sign David Bentley by offering Blackburn a cash plus players offer for the England star.

Tottenham boss Juande Ramos is set to make wholesale changes to his White Hart Lane playing squad this summer as he attempts to steer Spurs into the top four of the Premier League next season.

And according to The People, Ramos sees Bentley as a vital component if he is to achieve that goal for the North London side. Reports suggest that the Spaniard is ready to offer Rovers a deal that would see midfielder Hossam Ghaly, winger Aaron Lennon and £7 million head to Ewood Park.

Rovers boss Mark Hughes, whose future at Ewood is uncertain due to his reported presence on the shortlist for the Chelsea managers job, may be tempted by the offer as Lennon would act as a direct replacement for Bentley on the right wing, and Ghaly would provide back-up for veteran Turkish central midfielder Tugay.

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has had Bentley and his England colleague Gareth Barry high on his summer shopping list ever since the Premier League season came to a close - but is more likely to offer straight cash for the former Arsenal man, who has expressed his disappointment at Blackburn’s failure to qualify for Europe.

Spurs, meanwhile, are reportedly set to turn to Diego Milito if they fail to hang on to their much sought after star Dimitar Berbatov, who may be lured by the chance to play in the Champions League next season.

Newcastle To Swoop For Anfeld Pair?

Newcastle United are being linked with a possible move for Liverpool pair Peter Crouch and John Arne Riise.

As Kevin Keegan looks to strengthen his Newcastle squad, there is speculation that he copuld mount a double bid for his old club's striker Peter Crouch and full-back John Arne Riise.

This summer will be Keegan's first opportunity to enter the transfer market on behalf of Newcastle since he ended his first spell as Magpies' manager nine years ago.

He is keen to mould his squad for next season and is therefore expected to make some significant signings this summer.

He has Nigerian striker Obafemi Martins recovering from an ankle injury sustained on international duty and set to join Australian Mark Viduka on the sidelines for pre-season. So a striker with the track record of Crouch is thought to be an attractibve proposition for Keegan.

At the same time Norwegian left-back Riise has been linked with Newcastle for some time. Keegan has only Jose Enrique as a specialist in that position, and Riise can also provide cover in midfield.

Currently Michael Owen - who missed England's two recent friendlies with an infectious virus - is the only 'fit' first-team striker at St James' Park, and he has suffered a catalogue of injury set-backs in recent seasons.

Crouch on the other hand just wants the chance to play regular first-team football.

Babel Targeting July Return

Dutch national team boss Marco van Basten is confident that Liverpool winger Ryan Babel will be fully fit again in time for the start of the Premiership season.

Babel, 21, is still reeling from having been ruled out Euro 2008 after tearing ankle ligaments during training on Saturday, but by the sounds of it thing could have been considerably worse.

"He needs five to seven weeks to recover," said Van Basten.

"He was on the other end of the field when he turned around. He told me that he heard something snap, and others heard it too.

"He went to a hospital and there it became clear he had torn a muscle."

Dutch olympic coach Foppe de Haan is also optimistic of the former Ajax star's recovery, and has even opened the door to the possibility of Babel representing his country in China in July.

“If Ryan recovers, he’s a sure candidate for a place in the team. With his qualities, he could be a very important player for us,” de Haan had declared yesterday.


“We must wait and see how long his convalescence will last.

"I find it a shame that Ryan has to miss the European Championship final stage. His absence is also a large blow to the national side. He could have been our secret weapon."

Fernando Torres Can Shine In Euro 2008 Says Xabi Alonso

Xabi Alonso is tipping club and country team-mate Fernando Torres to be one of the stars of Euro 2008 when it kicks off on Saturday.

After an incredible debut season at Anfield, in which the Spanish striker netted 33 goals in all competitions, Alonso insists that Torres is ready to terrorise international defences in Austria and Switzerland.

Alonso, whose own Liverpool future has been the subject of speculation since the end of the season, said: “The way we play with Spain is different to the way we play with Liverpool, but I think he is quite confident in himself.

"Whenever he gets the ball we think that something might happen. He has scored so many goals and hopefully he will continue this run in the Euros.

"Even the more optimistic could be surprised at how easily he settled at Liverpool because of the way he has performed. He has been so confident on the pitch and in front of goal and that is great news for Liverpool and Spain.

"And, obviously, it is hard but once he learns a few more things he will be even better."

Despite a record of underachievement in major tournaments, Alonso believes Spain are finally well equipped to challenge for glory at the championships.

Luis Aragones' side arrive in Austria and Switzerland heavily backed and expected to challenge for a trophy that has eluded them since the Sixties.

The history books provide less cause for optimism than the bookies though, with Spain having repeatedly faltered on the biggest stage.

"There is no clear reason, but it's clear we have underachieved," Alonso confirmed.

"Each tournament is a great chance for us to try and prove that we can perform and be positive in a final tournament.

"Because of that we have faith in ourselves and we will strive to reach the level we expect and want to reach."

Spain have an embarrassment of riches in Alonso's position, with the likes of Andres Iniesta and Cesc Fabregas vying to partner Xavi in central midfield.

While being more than generous in appraisal of his rival Fabregas, Alonso makes clear that Spain's game plan revolves around getting the ball to Barcelona star Xavi's feet at every opportunity.

Alonso added: "It's great, with the qualities that they (Cesc and Iniesta) have. But the style of the national team is quite clear - get the ball to Xavi.

"We play possession football and with those players it's normal that it's quite an attractive prospect.

"Cesc has been great. Arsenal have presented a great style of football, with Fabregas at the hub of it.

"A couple of times this season they have been amazing. The player that has been the link between the defence and the attack, the team playmaker, has been Fabregas."

Alonso's own season, much like Liverpool's in fact, has been one of frustration.

A broken ankle saw him miss three months of the season but he is quick to spin a negative on its head; of the opinion that a prolonged spell on the sidelines makes him even fresher heading into the Euros.

"I feel that I have quite a good moment of form - I have quite fresh legs.

"Of course I had an injury before Christmas - for three months I was out - but now I am feeling fresher than if I would have played all of the games.

"It's been a disappointing season because of the injury but right now I am in a good moment and hopefully that will continue."

The greatest debate with regards Aragones' squad selection surrounded his omission of Real Madrid talisman Raul.

Having helped Real to the title by rolling back the years with a series of vintage displays, it was expected Raul would win a recall to Aragones' 23-man squad.

However, the veteran tactician elected to give youth its chance and Alonso is quick to play the diplomat when quizzed on Raul's snub.

"I have to respect the manager's decision. Of course it's the main debate in Spain - it's all over there - with Real Madrid having won the league and he having been one of the main reasons why.

"But the matter is in the hands of the manager."

Gareth Barry Drops Hint On Move To Anfield

Gareth Barry has dropped the biggest hint yet that he is considering a switch to Liverpool this summer.

Aston Villa are determined to hold on to their captain and manager Martin O’Neill wants to hold talks with the player.

A player-plus-cash offer worth £10m has already been rejected by Villa but with Rafael Benitez keen to add the England midfielder to his squad, decision time is looming for Barry.

And he admitted last night that the lure of instant Champions League football could be too tempting to resist.

“Champions League football helps any player,” he said. “You only have to look at the England squad to see the amount of players who get in the squad and start the games – the majority play in the Champions League.

“That's all about the decision that will have to be made by myself. Liverpool are in the Champions League and Villa are trying to push for that. That's all part of my decision if a bid gets accepted.

“There's so much to lose at Aston Villa. I've been there for 10 years, got a good rapport with the fans, I'm captain there, great relationship with the manager.

“But I would like things cleared up.”

Alonso-Juve: Crunch Talks Today

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso is reportedly on the verge of agreeing terms with Juventus, with contract talks scheduled today.

Alonso’s future has been in serious doubt for months following an injury-riddled campaign at Anfield, and the club’s interest in Aston Villa midfielder Gareth Barry has only fuelled the flames regarding his possible exit.

The Basque playmaker has stated his desire to remain on Merseyside with the rest of Rafael Benitez’s Spanish contingent, as well as close friend and Everton midfielder Mikel Arteta.

The 26-year-old would no doubt consider a return to his homeland, and Real Madrid and Barcelona have expressed interest in the former Real Sociedad man.

But with no solid offer forthcoming from Spain, Juve are the clear favourites to secure Alonso’s signature, his agent Inaki Ibanez declaring recently that the player is tempted by the Old Lady’s advances.

According to the Daily Mail, the Bianconeri are prepared to shell out ₤13.5 million for the Spanish international, who they will offer a five-year deal.

But the Reds are demanding in excess of ₤16 million for their midfield creator, whose potential absence could prove costly early next season while Javier Mascherano and Lucas Leiva are at the Beijing Olympics.

Crouch Ponders Anfield Exit

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch has admitted that his future may lie elsewhere as he pursues regular first-team football.

Though his goal-to-game ratio for England and Liverpool is impressive, the 27-year old continually found himself out-of-favour at Anfield and was handed just nine starts in the league last season.

Crouch’s former club of Portsmouth, along with Manchester City, have been linked with a move for the six-foot seven-inch striker this summer, with both clubs able to offer more certainties with regards to his place within the starting eleven.

With one eye on his place in Fabio Capello’s international set-up, Crouch met with Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez to clarify his position.

"I have spoken to Rafa. I have to play more games if I want to stay in the England set-up," he told the Daily Star Sunday.

"I didn't play enough last season, that's for sure. I need to play more at club level to be able to play at international level. You have got to be noticed.

"I need to play more games. I didn't get enough and it's something I have to look out for, for next season."

Should The Reds decide to move the forward on in the coming weeks, they are likely to request a fee of around £12 million.

Blanc Slams Door On Liverpool's Riise

Juventus chief executive, Jean Claude Blanc, has revealed the club will not be signing a left-back and thus has closed the door on Liverpool’s John Arne Riise.

The Norwegian left-back was linked with a move to the Bianconeri who are currently reinforcing their squad ahead of their Champions League return.

Riise’s future at Anfield is looking in doubt and reports in Italy claimed that Juve were paying close attention to the stopper.

However, the Bianconeri have revealed that they have no intention of signing a left-back.

“I can confirm that we will keep the left hand side of our defence as it is,” said Blanc.

“Cristian Molinaro and Paolo De Ceglie will be competing for the left-back place as they are two players who we have plenty of faith in.

“We want to show everyone that we can go far with our own home-grown players.”

The Bianconeri have already captured Albin Ekdal as well as Amauri and they are currently in talks over Xabi Alonso’s availability from the Reds.

Juventus president, Giovanni Cobboli Gigli, has in the past stated his intentions to focus on youth and it seems as if his philosophy is being adhered to by his directors.

Relief For Liverpool As Ryan Babel Injury Not As Bad As First Feared

Liverpool winger Ryan Babel should be fit in time for the start of the new Premier League season after it was revealed his ankle injury could take as little as five weeks to heal.

The 21-year-old was ruled out of Holland's Euro 2008 campaign after tearing ligaments in training on Saturday, but national team coach Marco van Basten insists he should be able to take his place in Rafael Benitez's side when they kick off the new season in August.

"He needs five to seven weeks to recover," Van Basten said of the former Ajax youngster.

"He was on the other end of the field when he turned around. He told me that he heard something snap, and others heard it too.

"He went to a hospital and there it became clear he had torn a muscle."

Liverpool's next confirmed match is a friendly away to Villarreal on July 30, by which time, if the Holland coach's assessment is right, Babel should be back in training.

Gerrard: I'll Play Anywhere For England

Steven Gerrard has admitted he is happy to adapt to playing in different positions across midfield for both club and country.

Under Fabio Capello's management with England, the Reds skipper has been utilised in several different roles. Even though central midfield is his preferred and most natural position, Gerrard said he will play anywhere to suit the team.

"That is not a concern," he added. "It is something I am quite used to at club level. I feel as if I am mature enough and experienced enough to adapt to different roles.

"You know my favourite role. I don't have to go on record and say it again.

"But, as long as I am in that starting XI and part of this England team, because I believe we will improve to get to where we want to get, I don't mind where I play.

"I think football has changed. In this day and age you can't afford to be selfish and think about yourself and spit your dummy out of the pram if you are not in your favourite position.

"You have got to adapt and be a team player and that's what I think I am. I have mentally accepted that - about six years ago."

The Liverpool captain also added he is enjoying the experience of playing under Capello for England, and said the former Real Madrid boss expects every player to perform to their highest level.

"Every single player has got things to prove personally and also as a team," said Gerrard. "We have under-achieved. All the staff are scrutinising us and looking at our strengths and weaknesses.

"Every time we train and every time there is an opportunity to meet up and play these games, you've got come to try and impress to stay involved.

"I am sure this manager will be ruthless if you don't meet the standards he wants. It is as simple as that.

"Training has been intense and, if you don't play the way Mr Capello wants you to play, or buy into his system, then I think it's 'goodbye' for you.

"The lads are learning how the manager wants us to play and how he wants the team set-up and he is also telling people individually what he expects from them."

Gerrard played the full 90 minutes in England's friendly 3-0 win over Trinidad and Tobago on Sunday night and Peter Crouch joined him for the second half.

Juve Take Fresh Alonso Step

Juventus will resume negotiations with the agent of Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso on Tuesday, reports in Italy are claiming.

Preliminary talks took pace last Wednesday when sporting director Alessio Secco and director general Jean-Claude Blanc spent four hours with Inaki Ibanez.

Stories emanating from Turin claim that the Bianconeri offered the Spanish international a four-year contract worth £2.5m a campaign.

Although the representative is thought to be happy with the length of contract offered, it is believed that he’s attempting to net his client a salary which is a little closer to the £3m mark.

Juventus were hoping to wrap up the deal as soon as possible, but they may have to be patient to get their man.

Alonso seems to be in no rush to sort out his future before Euro 2008, while the Turin giants still need to convince Liverpool to sell.

Blanc recently flew to the English city for talks with boss Rafael Benitez in an attempt to reach an agreement over a transfer fee.

Juventus will reportedly offer up to £12m, while the Reds would like £18m.

However, the Alonso deal could also hinge on whether the Premiership giants can get in an adequate replacement after an initial bid for Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry was rejected.

Hyppia: Torres Is A Beast

Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia says that he was amazed by the impact that Fernando Torres had in his first year, and suggested that his willingness -eagerness even- to get 'stuck in' meant that he had absolutely no problem adapting to the rigours of the Premier League.

The former Atletico Madrid man has re-established himself as one of the hottest pieces of property in world football, after a stunning debut season at Anfield that saw him net 33 goals in all competitions.

"It is quite unbelievable that he scored so many goals in his first season because it's not easy to come to the Premier League and be successful right away," said the big Finnish defender

"I knew that he was a quality player, but what has surprised me is that he was very physical. I couldn't believe how much he liked to get involved when he first joined.

"He is very strong and doesn't avoid any contact, not even in training with his mates at Liverpool. In fact, he's one of the players who kicks me always.

"I tried to prepare him for the strength in the Premier League as much as possible but I think he always had it in him - he's a bit of a hard man.

"Torres is always a handful as his opponents at Euro 2008 will soon discover."

Torres is currently preparing for Spain's Euro 2008 campaign, which will see them lock horns with the Greece, Russia and Sweden in what should be a very competitive group.

Liverpool Trial Teen Striker

Liverpool have confirmed they have offered a trial to 14 year old striker Markus Johansson, from Swedish club Hagahojden.

Despite his tender years, Johansson has already forced his way into the senior side at Hagahojden and has three goals to his name.

The Reds have been watching the youngster since he impressed in a summer tryout last year and he will now travel to Liverpool in the summer in an attempt to impress the Anfield coaching staff.

Johansson confirmed that he would be travelling to England in the next few months. He said: “We have kept in touch with their Swedish scout. I will go to Liverpool in August and train with their Academy for a few days.”

The teenager also admitted that the chance to play for Liverpool is a dream come true although he was honest enough to confess: “I am already starting to get nervous.”

Despite his nerves, the youngster is looking forward to what is undoubtedly a great opportunity. He said: “I got to know about the trial last week. It will be great fun. There are no doubts that it will be the biggest opportunity of my life.”

He was also quick to point out that playing for Liverpool is a long held ambition of his: “My biggest asset is my strength and it is my dream to play for Liverpool.”

Shocker For Benitez: Liverpool Forward Babel Ruled Out Of Euro 2008 By Serious Ankle Injury

Holland winger Ryan Babel will miss Euro 2008 after tearing ankle ligaments in training.

Babel is expected to be out of action for several weeks and will therefore not take part in the summer showpiece in Austria and Switzerland.

The Liverpool attacker sustained the injury a day before Holland play their final pre-tournament friendly, against Wales in Rotterdam.

Holland coach Marco van Basten has not named a replacement for the 21-year-old although he is permitted to do so once Babel has been examined by a UEFA doctor.

The Dutch will line up alongside France, Italy and Romania in Group C. Their first match is on June 9 against world champions Italy.

Despite the injury blow, Holland boss Marco van Basten has delivered an ominous warning for John Toshack's Wales ahead of their meeting at Feyenoord's sold-out De Kuip stadium, demanding a flurry of goals to send his side into the Euro 2008 finals on a high.

That will be worrying for Welsh ears, because the last time they faced Holland they were thrashed 7-1 in Eindhoven in 1996, and Van Basten clearly wants a similar scoreline against a country they have beaten on all five previous meetings between the side.
Van Basten was disappointed with Thursday's 1-1 home draw against Denmark, when he fielded a side much closer to the one expected to face Italy in their opening group C match on June 9 in Berne.

"We must be more clinical and take our chances. This team has matured over the last two years and everywhere the expectation is so much higher, not surprisingly," he said.

"But we cannot allow ourselves to let teams off the hook when we are making chances and on top."

Former Manchester United ace Ruud van Nistelrooy scored early on against the Danes, but Holland could not build on that opener.

And now Wales could feel the backlash with a young, inexperienced side set to line up against the Dutch.

Van Basten said: "It is a bad thing for us, we are not cashing in on the numerous chances we create. This is often a Dutch problem, and one we must solve before we go to the finals."

The former Dutch master, though, was happy with Van Nistelrooy's contribution, the Real Madrid man only joining up with the squad on Monday after being excused the early training work along with other stars who had been involved in big matches of late.

Manchester United's Edwin van der Sar - the Red Devils' spot-kick hero in the Champions League Final - was another later arrival in camp.

"Van Nistelrooy took his chance well and looked sharp. But others must start to score as well," added the coach.

Before Babel broke down Van Basten reduced his squad to 23 after Wigan defender Mario Melchiot proved his fitness after struggling with a groin problem. The three unlucky players to step down were keeper Sander Boschker, Denny Landzaat and Khalid Boulahrouz.

Wales could find themselves facing virtually Van Basten's strongest side, but Arsenal's Robin van Persie is unlikely to be risked as he is still suffering from a thigh problem.

Van Basten, perhaps significantly, made a point that the forward had been risked too soon by the Gunners at the tale end of the season.

He said: "We are not going to do that because Robin is a special player we would rather see in the side to face Italy.

"He came back too quickly last season and had a relapse. Our doctors believe it is better to allow him to recuperate as long as possible rather than risk him being injured in a friendly."

Aston Villa full-back Wilfred Bouma will get his chance to clinch a place in the starting line-up against the Italians, as will Real Madrid's former Chelsea man Arjen Robben, who was replaced late on by Babel against the Danes.The KNVB said a replacement for Babel was being discussed.

The Netherlands are in Group C along with France, Italy and Romania for the June 7-29 tournament in Austria and Switzerland.

Torres Rules Out Reds Exit

Liverpool striker Fernando Torres insists he will be at Anfield for 'many years to come'.

The Spain international enjoyed a prolific first season in England following his move from Atletico Madrid, finding the net 24 times in the Premier League.

Torres' red-hot form in front of goal has seen him linked with a number of clubs throughout Europe, with Chelsea said to be considering an astonishing £50million offer.

But the Kop idol has assured manager Rafa Benitez and the club's fans that he has no intention of moving away from Merseyside.

He said: "It is an honour to be linked to clubs like Barcelona, Chelsea, or Arsenal - but I am not thinking about a change and I want to continue playing for Liverpool for many years to come.

"It's been quite easy for me. I have been able to enjoy every minute at a club where things have gone well.

"I have been part of a team where every player shares the same goals and where a player can rely on the support of his team-mates.

"I have also worked with a manager who believed in me. It was the combination of all these factors."

Hyypia - End Boardroom Bust-up

Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia has called on co-owners George Gillett and Tom Hicks to end their boardroom bickering in order to allow the Reds to focus on success.

Gillett and Hicks - who took control at Anfield in February 2007 - suffered a much publicised difference of opinion last term, which saw Merseyside swamped in speculation about the future of the American duo.

Liverpool, who had been tipped to challenge for the Premier League, ended the last campaign without a trophy and failed to reach a cup final for the first time in manager Rafa Benitez's four-year reign.

And veteran centre-back Hyypia has demanded Gillett and Hicks settle their differences in the summer in order to allow Liverpool to land silverware.

"I think Liverpool fans and the club expect success in a season and we didn't win anything, so I can't be satisfied," Hyypia said in The People.

"With what has gone on off the pitch I think everyone is professional enough to just concentrate on doing what they do on it and not get too distracted.

"But it doesn't help the football club to be successful and hopefully soon they can get things sorted so we can push on.

"I don't know the whole truth but I know everything is not right with the owners."

Liverpool To Offer ₤20m For Ribery

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is reportedly preparing an ambitious bid for Bayern Munich winger Franck Ribery.

The French international, widely tipped to star for Les Bleus at EURO 2008 next month, has catapulted himself to superstardom since his arrival in Bavaria last summer.

The 25-year-old journeyman is now recognised as one of the most dangerous wingers in the game, alongside the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi.

His performances for Bayern have alerted some of the biggest clubs in Europe, and reports from Germany claim Liverpool will offer ₤20 million for the former Marseille man.

Benitez is keen to strengthen his attacking options over the summer, and has been monitoring a number of wide players, including La Liga stars Maxi Rodriguez and Albert Riera.

Ribery’s ability to play right across the pitch will no doubt attract the former Valencia boss, as will the Frenchman’s supreme understanding with Bayern hitman Luca Toni.

Benitez is planning to build a team around star striker Fernando Torres, and Ribery could prove a stunning addition alongside Dutch youngster Ryan Babel and Liverpool skipper Steven Gerrard in the Reds’ 4-2-3-1 formation.

However, as Bayern paid around ₤17 million for the former Galatasaray man only a year ago, Rafa and co may have to up their bid if they wish to prise one of Europe’s most exciting talents away from the Allianz Arena.

Gerrard Desperate For Barry Buy

Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard has revealed he is desperate play alongside Gareth Barry next season, as the Aston Villa midfielder draws ever closer to an Anfield switch.

The pair are famous friends off the pitch, and their combination for England’s second goal during their 2-0 win over the United States on Wednesday showed exactly what Barry can bring to the Liverpool midfield.

Villa boss Martin O’Neill is reluctant to sell his skipper, especially given his ire at the overtly public manner in which the Reds have pursued the 27-year-old.

Gerrard has given O’Neill more to grumble about by reiterating that Barry is one of Benitez’s prime summer targets.

And the Kop idol is keen to see his England colleague in a red shirt next season, insisting his playing style will perfectly suit the Merseyside giants.

“We’re good friends on and off the pitch and I'm desperate for us to sign him,” Gerrard said.

“I am sure Gareth will find it hard to leave Villa. But he is 27 and needs Champions League football. He has been there for 10 years. Yet opportunities sometimes come up to better your career.

“I spoke to Rafa Benitez at the end of the season and I know he has players he is trying to bring in this summer. One of those is Gareth Barry. He will certainly help Liverpool to become a better team.”

“I’ve enjoyed playing with him for England. He keeps it simple and is easy to read.”

Mascherano Desperate For Beijing Berth

Liverpool midfielder Javier Mascherano is determined to help Argentina defend their title at the Beijing Olympics this summer, despite his manager’s protests.

The 23-year-old could become the first Argentine to win back-to-back gold medals at the Olympics games, having been part of the Albicelestes team that triumphed in Athens in 2004.

But Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is desperate to persuade his midfield enforcer to skip the Games, as it would mean he would miss the first four weeks of next season.

The Reds have already released Brazilian gun Lucas Leiva for Olympic duty, meaning Mascherano’s absence would leave the team thin in midfield.

But the former West Ham man is keen to achieve history in China, and insisted his commitment to his country in no way lessens his loyalty to Liverpool.

“It’s important for any athlete to defend the gold medal,” said Mascherano. “I might be the only person from my country ever to do it and I’ll go down in history.

“I owe Rafa a lot in my career and I’m very appreciative of him but I want to go to Beijing because nothing counts for me more than helping my nation.

“He knows I leave my life on the pitch every time I play for Liverpool.”

Reds Let Crouch Leave

Liverpool striker Peter Crouch is likely to be granted his wish of leaving the club, after they finally backed down on their ambitious asking price.

The 27-year-old was aghast when Reds boss Rafa Benitez announced it would take at least ₤15 million to prize the lanky target-man away from Anfield.

Aston Villa and Portsmouth had expressed interest in bringing back their former striker, but Liverpool’s lofty price tag seemed to scare off all potential suitors, much to Crouch’s chagrin.

The England international had previously intimated his desire to leave Merseyside in search of regular football, in order to stay well and truly in view of Three Lions boss Fabio Capello.

The former Southampton man has received few first-team opportunities in recent times, as Spanish import Fernando Torres has clearly established himself as Benitez’s first-choice forward since arriving last summer from Atletico Madrid.

Liverpool gradually favoured a 4-2-3-1 system throughout the season, meaning Crouch was basically reduced to filling in when Torres was injured or rested – although he did usually impress when given the chance.

But Crouch’s hopes of regular football have taken a turn for the better, as Benitez and co are prepared to knock up to ₤5 million off their asking price, according to The Sun.

Pompey had an initial ₤7 million bid rejected, but Harry Redknapp may well snare his man if he can up the number to ₤10 million.

Villa are also still in the hunt, and as Gareth Barry looks increasingly likely to leave the Midlands in favour of Merseyside, the possibility remains of a swap deal that would see Crouch return to Villa Park.

End Of The Road At Anfield For John Arne Riise

John Arne Riise has been told he will be sold this summer should Liverpool receive a suitable offer for his services.

The out of favour left back claims he is in the dark about what lies in store for him at Anfield, even though the ECHO understands Riise has already been informed that he has no future at the club.

In an interview with a Scandinavian newspaper Riise revealed he has instructed his agent to speak to the club on his behalf in a last ditch attempt to find out whether or not he has any chance of extending his Liverpool career to an eighth season.

“My agent is set to find out what is happening,” he said. “I have to get things sorted out before pre-season starts.

“Those who have played internationals are due to meet up on July 7. I can’t wait and wait for an answer. I have to get an answer now.”

With Rafa Benitez already in the market for a new left back, the promising Emiliano Insua emerging from the reserve ranks and Brazilian Fabio Aurelio now back to full fitness, the likelihood is that Riise has played his last game for Liverpool and will be sold this summer.

Several clubs are interested in signing the Norwegian, although the Reds are yet to receive a firm offer.

Udinese’s Andrea Dossena remains Benitez’s first choice to fill the left back position next season and although a fee is still to be agreed negotiations are progressing and the Italian international is believed to be keen on a move to Anfield.

Dossena’s arrival would bring Riise’s Liverpool career to an end, particularly with Benitez keen to balance the books with player sales.

Liverpool Must Go Far And Wide For New Recruits

When Liverpool's new city centre store threw open its doors for the first time yesterday it was deluged by fans with shopping lists as long as a John Arne Riise throw-in.

But there were two special guests who had very different shopping on their minds from the majority of people at the biggest official club store in Europe in the newly opened Liverpool One development.

The thoughts of former Reds stars Jason McAteer and Jan Molby were concentrated more on the forthcoming Anfield bring and buy sale as Rafa Benitez gets to work on moulding his squad for the coming Premiership season.

Both are in no doubt about the areas the Liverpool manager needs to strengthen as, like everyone else in football, they have identified the wide areas as being in need of most urgent attention.

And both are happy that Liverpool have been linked with Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry.

But Molby and McAteer are split when it comes to who they would like to see added to the players roster at Anfield for the 2008/09 season, with the Dane being keen to see Barcelona star Deco in a red shirt and the former Irish international having his eye on Ricardo Quaresma of Porto.

“Obviously, Gareth Barry is the name on everyone’s lips at the moment and I think the speculation about Xabi Alonso leaving links into that as well,” said McAteer.

“We’ve already brought Philipp Degen in who is a Swiss international so that looks like a good signing.

“Down the spine of the team we can compete with anyone and that includes Man United, Chelsea and Arsenal.

“Reina is a fantastic keeper, we’ve got some brilliant centre-halfs in Jamie Carragher, Skrtel, Agger and Hyypia, in the middle of the park we’ve already got Stevie G and Mascherano and obviously there’s Torres up front.

“I’d like to see another striker at the club but, having said that, I think Peter Crouch deserves to stay at the club.

“He is a great player and he’s handled himself really well off the pitch despite the fact that he has had a difficult year.

“Peter has hung in there and I would like to see him given more starts next season.

“The flanks are the areas where we really need to improve. Harry Kewell’s already gone and it looks like Pennant will follow him, Dirk Kuyt has done a job on the right flank for the team but I’d like to see a real top quality winger brought in.

“Quaresma can sometimes be a liability and he is supposed to be a bit of a livewire off the pitch, but in terms of ability his quality is fantastic.

“He grew up with Ronaldo at Sporting Lisbon and as youngsters he was considered the better of the two of them.

“Obviously Ronaldo has come through a lot more than Quaresma, but I think a lot of that is down to Alex Ferguson and I think Quaresma could really flourish under Rafa Benitez.

“So maybe someone like him would be a good signing.

“But I also like the look of Bayern Munich’s Philip Lahm, who can play at fullback or in midfield.

“In fact, he would probably provide a nice balance with Quaresma because he doesn’t go forward quite as much and has a more defensive mind.

“The only thing is, quality like this costs a lot of money. But there is no reason why the manager shouldn’t be given that kind of money, especially if we want to challenge.”

Like every other Liverpool fan, Molby has been picking up on all the speculation linking Liverpool with various players, but Deco is the one who most captures his imagination.

“There are lots of rumours going around, as there always are at this time of year,” he said.

“I think we have more or less identified the areas where we need to strengthen – obviously the full back areas and on the flanks – but I also think we’re desperate for another striker and that would be my prime target if I was the manager.

“Berbatov has been mentioned, but I don’t know if we’ve got that kind of money.

“The one for me would be Deco. When he became available at Barcelona the first thing I thought was that he’d be great to play in the hole behind Torres.

“I’m not sure we need another out and out striker because I think Fernando Torres is one of those rare specimens who actually plays better up front on his own.

“For me, what we really need is an old style number seven, someone who can play in that role just off the main striker like Kenny Dalglish and Peter Beardsley used to, and I just thought that when Deco became available he would have been ideal.

“I know he’s had some ups and downs but he undoubtedly has ability. That boy can really play.

“I think it is really difficult because there aren’t loads of great wingers about.

“I know a lot of people have been looking at Mancini at Roma but I don’t think he’s a Premier League player and I wouldn’t bring him here.

“I think that Rafa has reached the stage where he believes that if we are going to bring in wide men to do well in the Premier League then they might have to be British, hence the talk about Stewart Downing and David Bentley coming to Anfield.

“We’ve tried with foreign wide men and it hasn’t quite worked out.

“I think Gareth Barry is a very good player. He is an intelligent footballer who is ideally suited to the way Rafa wants to play.

“He’s not a headless chicken, he knows the game inside out. The only problem is, if we do sign him we’re going to have to sell one of our central midfield players because he won’t be bringing him to play on the left and that will probably spell the end of Xabi Alonso.

“For me, Xabi is a once in a lifetime player and it will be a shame if he has to go, but maybe it makes sense if the fee that’s been bandied about is the right one.

“If it is, then maybe the time is right to take the money and run but I would be reluctant to see him go.”

The tills started ringing at Liverpool’s brand new superstore yesterday, and it is only a matter of time before the buying and selling begins at Anfield.

But whether any of the potential targets named by Molby and McAteer feature on Rafa Benitez’s shopping list remains to be seen.

Liverpool's Riera Bid Rejected

Espanyol have rejected Liverpool’s £9.5m (€12m) bid for Spanish international midfielder Albert Ortega Riera, according to reports.

The left-sided midfielder has expressed his desire to join a bigger club this summer, having impressed for the The Periquitos this season, breaking into the Spain squad and scoring a spectacular debut goal against Denmark in October.

Having drawn plaudits during a loan spell with Manchester City in 2006, the 26-year old is not short of Premiership suitors and Liverpool will have to almost double their bid if they are to meet Espanyol president Daniel Sanchez Libre’s £18.5 million valuation.

The Merseysiders have time to mull over an improved bid given Riera’s omission from Spain’s Euro 2008 squad, a factor that served only to heighten the midfielder’s growing frustration in Barcelona.

Though he along with teammates Luis Garcia and Raul Tamudo have all featured prominently for Luis Aragones, most recently in the friendly win over Italy in March, Riera feels that Espanyol’s poor second-half to the season has cost the trio their international places.

"I knew there could be surprises but I expected to be there," he said.

"But the second half of the season has cost us.

"Normally all three of us would be with the national team and now none of us are," he said.

"It's disappointing but there is no point looking back now.

"I will rest this summer and start to think about next season."