Rumour Mill: Alonso, Silva developments

Liverpool have ‘œstepped up’ their chase for Valencia winger David Silva and are ready to let midfielder Xabi Alonso leave to Real Madrid to fund the move, according to reports this morning.

James Ducker in this morning’s Times newspaper says Alonso in not expected to return to training with the Reds this weekend as he finalises his move to the La Liga outfit.

The report suggests that Liverpool are now prepared to accept a bid for Alonso from Real now that a clause has expired in Alonso’s contract saying his former club Real Sociedad would receive 20% of the selling-on fee.

The Times adds:

It was unclear last night whether Wesley Sneijder, Real’s attacking midfield player, would be used as a makeweight in the prospective transfer.

Sports - December 11, 2007
Anfield bound? David Silva in action for Valenica

It is understood that the money made from the sale of Alonso would fund a big money move for Silva, who is also be chased by big spending Real.

Meanwhile Liverpool look set to sign 16-year-old Danish midfield ‘œwonderkid’ Nikolaj Kohlert from Esbjergs.

Discuss the Xabi Alonso transfer saga here, and potential David Silva signing here.