Liverpool FC

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Reina expecting pair to stay

06 Jul 2009 - 08:17:02

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Goalkeeper Jose Manuel Reina is confident that Liverpool will retain coveted midfield duo Xabi Alonso and Javier Mascherano this summer.

Spain international Alonso is wanted by big-spending Real Madrid as part of their major rebuilding programme.

Meanwhile, Argentina midfielder Mascherano is believed to be on the wish-list of European champions Barcelona, who are willing to pay up to £25million.

But despite the reported interest in the two Anfield midfield stars, Reina believes manager Rafael Benitez is in no mood to consider weakening a squad which came close to winning the Premier League title last season.

"I believe that he has his mind very clear and his idea in these moments is to not sell," he claimed.

"He wants to continue with a team he has known for a long time.

"Whoever wants to touch this team or this structure will have to pay a lot of money."