Fernando Torres plays down money matters at Liverpool as move for David Villa fades

30 June 2009 09:00
Rafael Benitez's side have been linked with the £40 million Valencia forward but it seems he is destined to remain in Spain with Barcelona and Real Madrid vying for his signature. Torres expressed a wish for Villa to join him at Anfield – he has recommended him and fellow Valencia pair David Silva and Juan Mata to Benitez – but knows it is a distant prospect with Liverpool's transfer fund dwarfed by both the Spanish giants and also Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea. However, regardless of finances the Spain striker is confident Liverpool can overcome United, whom they came a close second to in last season's Premier League. "I don't know about Liverpool's financial situation but I know we don't have the same money as Manchester United or Chelsea," he said. "We're fighting them with less money every season. That's not a problem for us – we're a strong team and we'll win trophies with money or without it. "The important thing is we're getting closer to the title. It's been frustrating for me because three years without a trophy for Liverpool is too long. The next one is coming, though – I'm sure of it. "I know Rafa is working hard to bring in good players but I'm pretty sure David Villa will be too expensive for us. "He is an outstanding striker and if Liverpool could sign anyone, I'd ask for him. He's been in sensational form this season. "But, to be honest, we have Steven Gerrard playing behind the striker and he scores 20 goals a season, so we don't really need another forward. We just need to keep our best players." That may be easier said than done as Real are reportedly planning to sign midfielder Xabi Alonso and defender Alvaro Arbeloa in a £35 million swoop with Barcelona eyeing a move for Javier Mascherano despite Benitez putting a £50 million price tag on the Argentina captain. "Mascherano is a close friend of Leo Messi. We will see what happens. He's a player I like very much," Barcelona president Joan Laporta said.

Source: Telegraph