The ball is firmly in Arbeloa’s court. We understand there is a 3 year contract on the table at Anfield for Arbeloa to sign but he has so far refused to put his pen to paper. Speaking to Marca, Liverpool’s left back said:
“It fills me with pride that Real Madrid would look at me. I’m flattered – it’s a great project with the return of Florentino (Perez).”
“I would be lying if I said I was sure to start the season with Liverpool.”
It seems clear that Arbeloa is waiting for an offer that is acceptable to Liverpool. The player’s contract is due to expire next summer and he could sign a pre-contract deal for nothing from January.
And Liverpool could make a deal with Madrid which includes Gabriel Heinze. Liverpool will be looking to replace Sami Hyypia in some way this summer and we may elect to take the option of the player plus cash for Arbeloa. The Times reports that the reds and Chelsea have joined Spurs in looking at the player.
Rafa unsuccesfully tried to land Gabriel Heinze in 2007 when Manchester United refused to sell the player to Liverpool.