REDS TO GRAB XABI

Anfield Online have learned that Liverpool are poised to buy Real Sociedad's Xabi Alonso, a target of Real Madrid as the ideal partner for Steven Gerrard in the Anfield midfield.

According to our sources Liverpool chairman Rick Parry contacted Sociedad chiefs on Tuesday about the availability of the young Spaniard.

Xabi is 22 years old and it seems that Benitez sees him as the perfect partner for Gerrard in midfield.

The La Liga star was the engine room of the Real Sociedad side that had an unexpected go at the Spanish title last season.

Real Madrid baulked at the £12 million asking price, but Liverpool look prepared to meet the price as a decent investment for the future.