Alonso Hands In Transfer Request

Sky Sports is reporting that Xabi Alonso has handed in a transfer request following weeks of speculation about his future.

Liverpool have told Real Madrid that they want £30m for Alonso, but Real will not meet that valuation; however Alonso's transfer request will likely move Liverpool a little on the price.

Yesterday Álvaro Arbeloa moved to Real Madrid signing a five-year deal with Liverpool receiving a £3.5m fee. Now that that business is concluded Real will be certain to open negotiations for Alonso.

Liverpool's pre-season plans will now hinge upon how this saga plays out. Glen Johnson is the only notable new-comer to Anfield and with Mascherano, Babel Dossena all linked with the exit door, Benitez has a tough time ahead ensuring he has a squad willing and capable of challenging for the Premier League in the forthcoming season.

Alonso To Leave Liverpool?

The Times is saying that Rafa Benitez will permit Xabi Alonso to leave Liverpool if he hands in a transfer request. They report that Alonso has stated to Benitez that he would like to leave but has not handed in a transfer request.

As such it is now unlikely that Alonso will be on Liverpool’s pre-season tour in Asia which may allow for the transfer to be completed with time to re-invest the transfer fee which could eclipse £30m if Real are still tempted.

Alonso was in good form for Liverpool last season and his absence will be felt in midfield especially having lost out to Man City who swooped early for Gareth Barry.