According to latest rumours, Arsenal are interested in signing Xabi Alonso, but want Liverpool to reduce the price tag for the Spanish midfielder. With Hleb, Gilberto and Flamini having departed Ashburton Grove for Barcelona, Panathinaikos and Milan respectively, Arsene Wenger is looking for a midfielder to support Cesc Fabregas, and Alonso seems to fit the bill properly. The stumbling block seems to be the transfer fee- Liverpool value Alonso at 18 million pounds ( the fee they are expected to pay for Gareth Barry), while Arsenal are looking at something in the 10-12 million pound range.
But with Liverpool owners Gillett and Hicks agreeing to underwrite a loan to ensure that the Reds do not fall short of funds to complete the Barry transfer, it appears that Benitez will stick to his £18m valuation for the San Sebastian born midfielder.
Alonso was linked with a move to Juventus earlier in the summer, but the deal did not materialise.
( Image courtesy Alexander Ottersen)