Football Talk - Benitez keen to keep Alonso - 17/04/09
Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has expressed his desire to retain midfielder Xabi Alonso.
The Spaniard was linked with a move away from Anfield last summer as Benitez set his sights on signing Aston Villa and England midfielder Gareth Barry. The 27-year-old has gone on to enjoy an excellent season, helping the Reds challenge for the Premier League title.
Speculation has surfaced that Real Madrid and Barcelona could target Alonso when the transfer window reopens. However, Benitez has warned any potential bidders that he will fight to keep hold of Alonso.
"We had an offer from Juventus and asked a big price as he is a big player. They couldn't meet it," Benitez said. "In the end, Xabi has been having a very good season. He has been playing well in a lot of games and is a key player for us. We have a lot of confidence in him and he is a player we want to keep because he has the quality, and the game, that we need."
