Liverpool Football Club News

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Benitez: Alonso not for sale

25 May 2009 - 10:37:50

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Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez claims Xabi Alonso is not for sale following fresh speculation surrounding the future of the Spain international.

Alonso came close to leaving Anfield last summer when Benitez was keen to raise funds to finance his ultimately fruitless pursuit of Aston Villa and England midfielder Gareth Barry.

The 27-year-old has enjoyed a fine season and recent reports have linked Alonso with a move back to Spain with Real Madrid.

But despite Alonso himself admitting he does not know where his future lies, Benitez claims the midfielder is not for sale and will be staying on Merseyside.

Speaking after Sunday's 3-1 win over Tottenham, he said: "He is not for sale and we do not want to sell.

"Alonso has three years left on his contract and we are really pleased with him, so we do not want to sell."

However, Benitez has revealed he is unhappy that a 'private meeting' with the player and his agent has become public knowledge.

He added: "I have had a private conversation with his agent and it was interesting to see who then had that information.

"For me it was a private conversation and it will stay that way, but it is clear he has three more years of his contract and we do not want to sell him.

"I repeat. We do not want to sell, he is not for sale. He has said he is happy here in Liverpool, in every single press conference, in every single interview.

"We have some ideas for the future, without losing any of our key players."