Source: Eurosport
Alonso hands in transfer request - report
Xabi Alonso's departure from Liverpool has moved a giant step forward with claims that he has submitted a transfer request.
Liverpool have not confirmed the latest move in the saga of the midfielder's potential departure to Real Madrid, but sources close to the club insist the 28-year-old has formally asked to leave, according to a report in the Liverpool Echo.
Previously he had only held meetings with Rafael Benitez and verbally told the Anfield boss of his desire to quit.
This latest move will pave the way to his departure, with Real on the brink of making a £28million compromise bid for the Spain international.
Alonso is due back for training on Thursday from a short holiday at his San Sebastian home. But Benitez had told Alonso that he wanted the uncertainty around the player's future to be sorted out before the weekend one way or another.
