Source: SKY_Sports
Perez issues Alonso warning
Real Madrid president Florentino Perez insists he will not pay over the odds for players, amid reports from Spain which suggest Rafa Benitez has put a 48-hour deadline on their pursuit of Xabi Alonso.
The Liverpool midfielder is at the top of Real's wish list as they look to add the finishing touches to a summer of unprecedented spending, which has already seen the likes of Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Karim Benzema arrive at the Bernabeu.
Benitez, exasperated by Real's pursuit, has repeatedly stated his desire to keep influential Alonso at Anfield and has called on the player, known to favour a return to Spain, to put an end to the speculation by declaring his commitment to Liverpool.
Fair prices
Should he fail to do so, Liverpool reportedly want to recoup a £30million fee. Perez, though, insists that despite his club's massive outlay he has no intention to be held to ransom for his remaining targets.
"Some people obviously thought that because we said we wanted more Spanish players, they could ask for fees which don't correspond to reality," Perez told the Daily Telegraph.
"A year ago, certain players we've asked about would have cost less than half the price we're being quoted now.
"If necessary, we'll find the Spanish players we would like for the squad in our youth system."
