Arsenal have made an offer for Liverpool’s Xabi Alonso, with manager Arsene Wenger envisioning a Spanish central midfield of Alonso and Cesc Fabregas.
However, any deal will depend upon Liverpool significantly lowering their £18million asking price for the playmaker, who has been linked with a move away from Anfield all summer since Rafael Benitez made clear his desire to recruit Aston Villa‘s Gareth Barry and his willingness to sell to raise the necessary finance.
The Gunners have made an initial approach for Alonso, 26, but with a bid that reflects their £10.5million valuation of the Spain star.
A transfer therefore remains unlikely unless either Liverpool or Arsenal significantly adjust their positions - or both clubs arrive at an acceptable compromise of around £14million.
Meanwhile, Alsonso scored a penalty as Liverpool trounced Rangers 4-0 at the weekend, and Benitez said the player would not necessarily be leaving Anfield before the transfer window closes.
He said: "It's simple. He is a very good player who is playing for us and I am really pleased with that."
It would remain a fairy tale to behold if Rafa Benitez will be willing to let his fellow Spaniard go to the Emirates Stadium after Juventus Fc where not successful in thier bid for the gifted Midfielder.
Moreover, Benitez migth want to hold onto him as he is a good ball-controller in the mid-field who knows how to uplift a game when the chips are down.
