SOCCER TRANSFER NEWS:REAL MADRID still hope to prise Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso away from Anfield, according to club director general, Jorge Valdano.
The Spain international has been the subject of intense interest from the free-spending Primera Liga side this summer but the midfielder stressed last week that he was happy in England.
However, Alonso’s statements have not ended Madrid’s interest in the €23 million-rated midfielder – a €12.25 million buy from Real Sociedad in 2004.
The 27-year-old came close to a switch to Juventus last summer as Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez attempted to fund a move for then Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry.
Neither move materialised and Barry has now joined Manchester City after Alonso proved his worth to Liverpool with a string of impressive displays last season.
Bankrolled by re-elected club president Florentino Perez, Madrid look set to be Europe’s biggest spenders this summer and Valdano admits they are still interested in Alonso.
“We have possibilities there but I don’t want to say anything that will make the negotiation more difficult,” said Valdano.
Liverpool full-back Alvaro Arbeloa’s current situation is also of interest to Madrid. The Spain international’s future is up in the air with the arrival of right-back Glen Johnson set to be processed this week. Madrid are keen should Arbeloa become available.
“The lad only has a year left on his contract with Liverpool and this gives us more possibilities,” added Valdano.
