PLAYERS RETURN TO TRAINING PICTURE SPECIAL

The first batch of players returned to Melwood for pre-season training this week. Here's the best of the day in pictures.

Cisse permanently to Marseille

Djibril Cisse's agent has confirmed the Liverpool striker is close to securing a permanent switch to Marseille.
Reds boss Rafa Benitez indicated last week he was only prepared to sell the Frenchman, who moved to Anfield for £14million in the summer of 2004, rather than let him go out on another loan deal.
And Marseille appear to have won the race to land him, beating off competition from Bolton, Portsmouth and a late approach from West Ham.
Cisse's agent Ranko Stojic has confirmed the move after admitting Marseille was the player's preferred destination because they are in the Champions League next term.
He now expects the France international to complete the formalities of the deal in the next few days.
It is unclear just how much Marseille will pay for the 25-year-old but Benitez was hoping to raise up to £6million to help fund his big-money move for Atletico Madrid forward Fernando Torres.

Rafa plans Heinze swoop

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is planning an audacious swoop to hijack Juventus' £5million move for Manchester United left-back Gabriel Heinze.
The 29-year-old is currently on international duty with Argentina at the Copa America and was expected to tie up his move to Juve upon returning.
However Benitez has now registered his interest in Heinze according to the Sun and the Anfield boss could pull off the deal if he is prepared to pay the Red Devils' asking price.
Heinze is said to be happy in the north-west and would welcome the chance to stay in the area, although he may not want to risk the wrath of United's fans by joining their fierce rivals.
He said of the interest in him: "My head is with the Argentina team to play the Copa America.
"After that and a holiday, I will know better where I will play next season."
Benitez has struggled to find a regular left-back for Liverpool and reportedly sees Heinze, no longer first-choice at Old Trafford, as the ideal candidate to fill the role.

Liverpool sign Spanish wonder boy

Liverpool last night signed Spanish wonder boy Daniel Pacheco — a striker, 16, from Barcelona.
Liverpool's move will cause uproar that another talent has slipped through the Camp Nou net.
The compensation fee will be about £350,000.

The 16-year-old, nicknamed The Killer by his team-mates, was regarded as one of the best youngsters in the youth set-up at Camp Nou and only arrived as a 13-year-old from Malaga.
However, he has shunned their offer of professional terms in order to pen a three-year deal at Anfield.
Pacheco's signing is the latest in a string of youth deals tied up by the Merseyside giants in recent weeks - with Alex Kacaniklic, Marvin Purie, Mikel San Jose, Nikolai Mihailov, Krisztian Nemeth and Andras Simon all penning deals to join the club's academy ranks.
Barca youth coach Garcia Pimienta admitted losing Pacheco was a huge blow to the club.
"It is a great loss for the club because he is a forward with a lot of quality," Garcia told Sport.
"He has been our top goalscorer and has already played for the youth team.
"Alongside Thiago Alcantara and Gai Assulin, he is one of the cadets we had the most hope for, but nothing can be done anymore.
"Everything happened very suddenly."
The news of Pacheco's departure to England is another blow to Barca, who have lost a host of top youngsters to the Premier League in recent seasons.
The likes of Cesc Fabregas, Fran Merida and Gerard Pique have all turned their back on the Blaugrana to make the move to the English top-flight.

Donati's hero is STEVEN GERRARD

Massimo Donati is already convinced he made the right decision to join Celtic and is now aiming to emulate his "hero" Steven Gerrard.

Hoops fans are hoping Donati has the same sort of impact at Parkhead as fellow Italian Paolo Di Canio did more than a decade ago.
But Gordon Strachan's latest recruit insists he is more interested in emulating Liverpool and England star Gerrard.
The 26-year-old midfielder completed a £3million move from AC Milan to Celtic this week and is relishing the prospect of British football next season.
"Obviously it is every player's dream to become the supporters' idol but it is obviously more difficult for a midfielder than a striker," he said.
"My hero is Steven Gerrard and I feel that he is the model that I aspire to be and I hope to be as good as him.
"In Italy, we have a different way of playing and a midfielder normally defends, that is the position they play and that is what they are expected to do.
"I would score only one or two goals a year in Italy.
"But here I have already spoken to the manager and he is happy for me to go ahead and attack and I am looking forward to that part of the game.
"I know that my name is not that well known here but I hope it does become well known in Scotland."
Celtic reportedly fought off strong competition from Sampdoria, Palermo and Atalanta - where Donati spent last season on loan - to land the man who cost AC Milan £10million back in 2001.
Explaining his decision to snub Serie A for Scotland, Donati said: "I had many offers from many teams, even in Italy, but I wanted to play in a team which was the same level as Milan and Celtic have such prestige.
"As soon as I arrived here I realised I had made the right decision because it has been a fantastic experience so far. The 24 hours I have been here have just been wonderful."
He added: "Milan bought me when I was very young, I was only 19, and they spent a lot of money for me but they ended up loaning me out to other teams for a year.
"For three years I played in good games in a good league but I really want to play in important games and Celtic are giving me that chance to play in important games and to win, which is what I want to do."
Donati insists his confidence has not suffered as a result of his inability to hold down a first-team place at the San Siro or being farmed out on loan for the last few seasons.
In fact, he says he is relishing the opportunity Celtic have given him to prove he is good enough to play at a high level week in, week out.
He said: "I believe that results come from hard work, it has not caused me any problems with self-doubt or a loss of confidence. Milan didn't play me because they had all the other players in place.
"I believe in myself and if I didn't I wouldn't have accepted the challenge of coming to Celtic, I would have continued to play for the teams I played for in Italy.
"But I do believe in myself and I am up for the challenge of coming to Celtic."

Benitez knows way to San Jose

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez has captured a second top European teenager inside two days, signing Mikel San Jose from Athletic Bilbao.
Just a day after Levski Sofia announced that Bulgarian international goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov would be joining Liverpool on a three-year deal, Bilbao confirmed that young defender San Jose was also bound for Anfield.
While Benitez and Liverpool are still locked in talks over their plans to sign Atletico Madrid's striker Fernando Torres, it is also clear the Spaniard remains committed to bolstering younger players at the club.
San Jose, 18, will move for a fee of around £270,000. Bilbao were aiming to use the youngster in their second team next season, but a club statement said: "For us it is bad news, but Mikel has decided on the choice of Liverpool and it was impossible for us to fight against a European giant."
San Jose added: "It was a surprise for me but I have decided to accept the chance at Liverpool.
"I am very excited but now I know that I have to work more each day to get in the first team."
The arrival of Mihaylov will put pressure on England squad man Scott Carson, who has been told that he will be Jose Reina's number two next season and will not be allowed out on loan again.
Mihaylov is the son of Bulgarian soccer federation chairman, Borislav Mihaylov - the former Reading keeper - and celebrates his 19th birthday on Thursday.
He has been a regular in Bulgaria's Under-21 side and has made one full international appearance. He already has Champions League experience, playing for Levski Sofia against Werder Bremen last season.
Although Benitez's only other top-line signing so far this season is Bayer Leverkusen striker Andriy Voronin on a free transfer, two young Hungarians also started training with the club on Thursday.
Krisztian Nemeth and Andras Simon are hoping to make a big impression at Anfield, and hope for first-team action within two seasons.
The teenagers were signed from MTK Budapest and 18-year-old Nemeth said: "We hope that in a year or two we can make our debut in the first team.
"I'm very happy with this, I think this is great news for our whole country. It's a big honour."
Simon, 17, added: "We want to play regular football in the reserves. We will do our best to step forward as soon as it's possible."
The pending arrival of a clutch of new youth talent at Anfield coincides with the announcement of a restructuring of the academy.
Former Ajax player Piet Hamberg was on Wednesday unveiled as the club's new academy technical manager with Under-18 coach John Owens promoted to academy manager.
The pair will work alongside Malcolm Elias, who joined Liverpool from Southampton last summer, and is in charge of recruitment.
The appointments follow the retirement of Steve Heighway after 18 years in charge of the academy.
Chief executive Rick Parry said: "Steve Heighway's departure gave us a chance to assess things and it was felt the role in charge of the academy had become too big for one person so it made sense to separate the two sides of the role.
"We wanted to bring someone in to concentrate solely on the technical side of things, on being out on the pitch coaching, while also having someone in charge of the managing of the academy.
"Steve's great strength was coaching and yet a lot of time in the role would be spent in the office. John Owens has been with us a long time and understands the system and Liverpool, while Piet will be able to concentrate on doing what he does best, which is coaching the young players."

Reds sign Bulgarian keeper

Levski Sofia goalkeeper Nikolay Mihaylov has signed a three-year contract with English side Liverpool, the Bulgarian football champions announced on Thursday.
"Nikolay Mihaylov signed a contract with Liverpool on Wednesday," the Bulgarian club's spokesman Atanas Kassabov said.

The contract is for three years but can be extended for another two.

The signing took place on Wednesday in Liverpool, on the eve of Mihaylov's 19th birthday.

The young reserve goalkeeper, who played 12 games for Levski Sofia after impressing in the junior league, comes from a footballing dynasty in Bulgaria.

His father Borislav Mihaylov, now president of the Bulgarian football union, and his grandfather Bissa Mihaylov were already goalkeepers for Levski Sofia and the national side before him.

In an interview with the Bulgarian daily 7 dni sport published on Thursday, Nikolay Mihaylov said "the offer from Liverpool was unexpected, but I couldn't turn it down."

"I always wanted to play in England," he added just before signing the contract.

REDS` TORRES RAID HELD UP

Liverpool are reportedly edging closer to sealing a record deal for Atletico Madrid striker Fernando Torres.
According to The Sun, Reds manager Rafael Benitez has agreed to pay £25million for the 23-year-old Spain international.
However the deal could be held up because Torres is entitled to 10 per cent of any fee and Atletico insist Liverpool should pay it.
The Premier League side are adamant this cash, all £2.5million of it, should come out of the overall transfer pot.
Atletico president Enrique Cerezo said: "Every player has a price and if they pay the transfer clause there is nothing we can do to stop Torres leaving.
"But at the moment what is certain is that there is nothing going on with Torres and any other club."
Benitez's own agent Garcia Quilon is trying to broker a deal and Liverpool are confident they will get their man.
Torres has long been linked with a move to England with his impressive 82 goals in 212 games for Atletico really raising awareness of his raw talents.
Meanwhile Liverpool have been expected to throw Djibril Cisse into the deal as part of a player-plus-cash arrangement while Luis Garcia could also be included.

Bolton, Fulham move for Liverpool's Le Tallec

Liverpool is fielding interest from a host of clubs over the availability of French striker Anthony Le Tallec.
Le Tallec spent last season on-loan with Sochaux, which are keen to sign him permanently, but will face competition for his signature.
Bolton Wanderers, Fulham, Espanyol, Celtic and Hertha Berlin have also been in contact about a deal for Le Tallec since the end of the French season.

Agger wons Young Player of the Year Award

Danish star Daniel Agger has scooped two honours in the Liverpoolfc.tv end of season prize list including the Young Player of the Year award.
Agger pipped Javier Mascherano to win the Young Player of the Year award, and the stylish centre half also won the Premiership goal of the season award for his stunning strike against West Ham United at Anfield. The Danish international has proved a popular figure since his capture from Brondby and the awards in his first full season at Anfield are a fitting honour for him.

Israeli ace waiting on Reds swoop

Yossi Benayoun is waiting before signing a new five-year deal at West Ham because he wants to see if Liverpool step up their interest.
The 27-year-old Israeli international, who was due to sign the contract at Upton Park this summer, has continually been linked with a move to Anfield in recent weeks. Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has already had a bid snubbed for Benayoun, but was expected to up his offer in an effort to complete a deal.
However nothing has been forthcoming in the past week and the player is now stuck in limbo as it appears he would like to know if Liverpool are going to firm up their interest before he pledges his long-term future to the Hammers.
Benayoun's agent Ronen Katzav told Sky sports: "We are still waiting.
"The deal is still in place with West Ham. We are waiting to see if the two clubs can come to an agreement.
"I am not going to say Yossi is desperate for a move at all, but it is only natural - any player in the world would be attracted by Liverpool."

Liverpool consider Saviola swoop

Rafael Benitez is considering bringing Javier Saviola to Liverpool Football Club.

The Argentina striker is out of contract at Barcelona and is certain to leave, particularly following the arrival at the Camp Nou of Arsenal’s French international Thierry Henry.The 25-year-old has already been linked with Middlesbrough and West Ham United, yet he is believed to be eager to secure a move to a team involved in the UEFA Champions League next season.Of course, Liverpool fit that bill following their third place Premiership finish last term, and as Benitez looks to rebuild his squad in order to finally land the league title, a move for Saviola could be on the cards.

Liverpool welcome Hungarian signings today

Liverpool will welcome new signings Krisztian Nemeth, 18, and 17-year-old Andras Simon, tonight.
The players, who both excelled for Hungary at the UEFA Under-17s championships in 2006, join the Anfield club from MTK Hungary, who this month announced that they have set up a partnership with Liverpool.
Among other things, the collaboration allows Liverpool's youngsters to gain first team experience in the Hungarian league.

Atletico want Crouch in Torres swap

Atletico Madrid have reportedly told Liverpool they will only do business over Fernando Torres if Peter Crouch comes as part of the deal.

The Daily Star claims the two clubs are £8million apart in their valuation for Spain international Torres, and while the Reds are believed to have offered Luis Garcia in part-exchange Atletico would favour the arrival of Crouch.
Officials from Anfield are set to travel to Madrid this week in the hope of completing a deal for the highly-rated 23-year-old, who has also been linked with Manchester United.
Atletico coach Javier Aguirre is said to be a big fan of England star Crouch and believes the 6ft 7in frontman would be a big hit in La Liga.
However, Liverpool chief Rafa Benitez wants a pool of four top-class strikers as he bids to challenge on all fronts next season, and would prefer to lose Garcia over Crouch.

RAFA BLOCKS OWEN MOVE

LIVERPOOL boss Rafa Benitez has rejected the chance to give England striker Michael Owen an Anfield return.
Newcastle were prepared to trade Owen for two Liverpool players – striker Craig Bellamy and left-back John Arne Riise.But Benitez ruled out a deal for Owen, which would also have taken Bellamy back to Tyneside.However, Owen could still be on the move – with Manchester City and Arsenal boss Arsene Wenger also interested in the 27-year-old striker.

Chelsea, Liverpool monitor unsettled Deco

Deco has warned Barcelona he'll quit the Nou Camp if he doesn't feel wanted.
Chelsea and Liverpool are monitoring Deco's situation after the Portugal international again snapped yesterday on Juan Jose Castillo's blog: "I won't stay where I'm not wanted.
"No-one from the club has suggested anything to me about leaving and my hope is to stay with Barca.
"I have always given my best when I pull on the Barcelona shirt. Those that talk about little commitment and professionalism don't know what they're talking about."

Torres prefer Liverpool than United

Liverpool are set to see off interest from Manchester United to seal the signing of Fernando Torres for a club-record £25m this week.
Reds boss Rafa Benitez has made the Atletico Madrid striker his number one transfer target this summer and looks set to get his man despite late interest in the 23-year-old from United.
It is thought the Spanish international would prefer a move to Anfield, where he would team up with fellow countrymen Benitez, Xabi Alonso and Pepe Reina, to spearhead the Reds' strike force next season.
There are reports Benitez will offer Atletico Luis Garcia or Djibril Cisse as part of the deal in order to reduce the amount Liverpool will have to fork out, although it is thought the Reds are willing to pay as much as £25m for Torres - a figure that easily eclipses the £14m spent on Cisse in the summer of 2004.
United's interest in Torres is long-standing and reports have suggested Sir Alex Ferguson now wants the forward after his bid to land Italian international Fabio Quagliarella from Sampdoria stumbled over the weekend.

No more loan for Cisse

Rafael Benitez has revealed that Djibril Cisse will only be allowed to leave the club next season if he's offered a permanent deal elsewhere.
The French striker spent last on loan at Marseille but Benitez says another temporary switch is out of the question. "The situation with Cisse is clear. If another club wants him, they must buy the player. We do not want another loan," said the Reds boss. Cisse arrived at Anfield during the summer of 2004 and has two years remaining on his contract.

Carson assured over Liverpool future

Scott Carson has been told he has a future at Liverpool Football Club.

The England Under-21 international spent last season on loan at Charlton Athletic, and after starring for the Three Lions during the European Championships, he was rumoured to be set for another loan spell elsewhere.However, Reds boss Rafael Benitez insists the former Leeds United goalkeeper will challenge regular number one Jose Pepe Reina fro the number one shirt at Anfield next season. "I was speaking to Scott recently and I told him he will be part of our first team squad next season," Benitez told the club's official website. "He must fight with Pepe Reina now for a starting place. “We knew when we fought off Chelsea to sign him he was a talented goalkeeper. He got some good experience last season and now he is coming back to us."

Mascherano in Argentina squad

Javier Mascherano has been named in Argentina's squad for the Copa America.
The American version of our European Championships starts on Tuesday. Argentina are in a group containing themselves, Columbia, Paraguay and the United States.

Argentina's first game is against the U.S. on Thursday and Mascherano is expected to play.

Reds ready to offer Cisse as bait for Spanish ace

Liverpool are reportedly ready to offer striker Djibril Cisse as part of their £25m bid to sign Atletico Madrid's Fernando Torres.
Reds boss Rafa Benitez is anxious to bring Torres to Anfield as part of his new-look squad next season but Liverpool are understood to be reluctant to match Atletico's £25m valuation for the Spanish international.
Wingler Luis Garcia has been linked as part of a possible swap deal for Torres but it now appears that Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry is trying to negotiate a deal that will see £6 million-rated Cisse move to Spain.
The French international spent last season on loan at Marseille and he and his advisers are said to have been told on Friday that he can start negotiating his move to Spain.
Atletico fancy Cisse after missing out on Torres's ideal replacement Vincenzo Iaquinta, who chose to join Juventus from Udinese last week, but complications could arise with Bolton boss Sammy Lee also keen to sign the Frenchman, who still has a home in the north west.

Reds may hijack Spurs' Bent deal

Charlton hitman Darren Bent is expected to complete a £16million move to Spurs next week - unless Liverpool make a last-ditch offer for him.

The Addicks had been holding out for the £17million price agreed with West Ham for Bent earlier this month, before he pulled out of the deal.
However, the Guardian claims they have agreed a fee of £15million, with another £1million in 'success-related payments' for the England man.
However, the deal could be scuppered if Liverpool's chase for Atletico Madrid forward Fernando Torres fails, as Rafael Benitez has lined up Bent as an alternative target.
The move is likely to cast doubt over Jermain Defoe's future at White Hart Lane, with Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov currently established as the top two strikers at the club.
Bent is a more versatile option for Spurs boss Martin Jol, who is currently hamstrung by Defoe and Keane's apparent inability to play alongside each other.
Bent provides a more physical option, and has often played as a lone-striker in his time at The Valley.
If Bent does sign for Jol's side, he will be on a contract considerably less than the £75,000-a-week he was reportedly offered at West Ham.
Spurs have a rigid wage structure in place, with Robbie Keane believed to be the club's top-earner on £50,000 a week.

Reds may hijack Spurs' Bent deal

Charlton hitman Darren Bent is expected to complete a £16million move to Spurs next week - unless Liverpool make a last-ditch offer for him.

The Addicks had been holding out for the £17million price agreed with West Ham for Bent earlier this month, before he pulled out of the deal.
However, the Guardian claims they have agreed a fee of £15million, with another £1million in 'success-related payments' for the England man.
However, the deal could be scuppered if Liverpool's chase for Atletico Madrid forward Fernando Torres fails, as Rafael Benitez has lined up Bent as an alternative target.
The move is likely to cast doubt over Jermain Defoe's future at White Hart Lane, with Robbie Keane and Dimitar Berbatov currently established as the top two strikers at the club.
Bent is a more versatile option for Spurs boss Martin Jol, who is currently hamstrung by Defoe and Keane's apparent inability to play alongside each other.
Bent provides a more physical option, and has often played as a lone-striker in his time at The Valley.
If Bent does sign for Jol's side, he will be on a contract considerably less than the £75,000-a-week he was reportedly offered at West Ham.
Spurs have a rigid wage structure in place, with Robbie Keane believed to be the club's top-earner on £50,000 a week.

Great Steven Gerrard Video

For great Steven Gerrard video, pls refer to the below link.

Showing why, when it’s all said and done, he’ll be considered one of the greatest ever. Just ask Ronaldinho.

http://liverpool.theoffside.com/liverpool/great-steven-gerrard-video.html

Liverpool drop Bent interest

Liverpool are dropping interest in Charlton Athletic striker Darren Bent.
The Liverpool Echo says Rafa Benitez made a tentative enquiry before West Ham's unsuccessful £17m bid, but they do not rate the striker in that price bracket.

REDS RANKED THIRD IN EURO STANDINGS

Liverpool will be ranked as third seeds when next season's Champions League competition gets underway.
The Reds - beaten finalists in Athens in May and five times winners of the tournament - are ranked behind AC Milan and Barcelona in the standings but will avoid the elite teams in European football if they triumph in their third round qualifier and progress into the group stages. England are the only country to have all of their teams seeded, with Chelsea being named among the top eight sides for the first time.

Sissoko to pen new Liverpool deal

Momo Sissoko is expected to sign a new deal with Liverpool within days.
The Times says Sissoko will pen a four-year contract, despite offers arriving from Juventus and Fiorentina.

Rafa convinced Torres wants Liverpool move

Liverpool are confident of clinching a club record £25 million deal for Atletico Madrid captain Fernando Torres.
The Sun says Kop boss Rafa Benitez and chief executive Rick Parry are confident the player fancies the move.
Torres was pictured back in April wearing his Atletico captain's armband with the words 'You'll Never Walk Alone' on the inside.
He denied it had anything to do with the Anfielders and claimed it was a private thing between friends.
But now a switch to the home of the world-famous anthem could become a reality, with the only key sticking point likely to be the Spain striker's fee.
Atletico want £27m to trigger the buy-out clause in their star's contract.
Liverpool are reluctant to go that high, despite Torres having two years left on his current deal, though they could offer £7m-rated Luis Garcia in part-exchange.
Any successful deal is sure to shatter Liverpool's previous record pay-out - £14m to Auxerre for Djibril Cisse in 2004.

LUCAS EAGER FOR ISTANBUL REPEAT

Lucas Leiva will require an Istanbul style miracle if his Copa Libertadores dream is to be realised in Brazil tonight.
The Gremio midfielder - who will arrive at Anfield in time for pre-season training after agreeing a move to Liverpool - is hoping to inspire his side to an unexpected victory in the South American equivalent of the Champions League final, despite opponents Boca Juniors recording an emphatic 3-0 first leg lead last week. Inspired by Argentinian star Juan Riquelme, Boca took firm control of the two legged final and are overwhelming favourites to complete the job this evening and deny Gremio their third South American crown - and their first since 1995. But goalkeeper Sebastian Saja is drawing inspiration from Liverpool's incredible comeback in the 2005 Champions League final against AC Milan. "I don't remember Boca ever allowing three goals in a decisive match like this," Saja said. "But Gremio has to do what it has always done, trust in its quality and seek one goal at a time. "I still remember what happened to Milan in the Champions League final against Liverpool, which needed only 30 minutes to erase three goals. It's hard, but not impossible."

Mourinho Jibes At Liverpool's History

Jose Mourinho has reopened the row with with Liverpool about the subject of 'history' as he reminds the Merseysiders of how many trophies his side have won compared to themselves in recent years.
While conceding that Liverpool have a fine European tradition he points out that they are suffering from a 17-year Championship drought.
The issue relates to a row that preceeded Liverpool's Champions League semi-final victory over Chelsea, which they achieved for the second time in three seasons, but Mourinho believes it is now his side that are making history.
He said: "Liverpool fans can continue to chant 'no history' at us but we continue to make it. They have their history, we have our history.
"They are a club with a history in Europe that Chelsea doesn't have, and their history is magnificent, but I think for 17 years they don't win one championship and we won two in the last three years.
"Of the 12 pieces of silverware in English football in the last three years, Chelsea won six, Liverpool two, Manchester United two and Arsenal two, so we won the same number of pieces of silverware that the other three clubs won all together. So I think we are going in the right direction."

TORRES HEADING FOR LIVERPOOL?

Fernando Torres could be the player to end Liverpool's summer of inactivity after Atletico Madrid finally decided to sell.
The Spanish striker will cost around £25m because of a clause in his contract but The Liverpool Echo believes that price will not put off Rafa Benitez.
Torres has previously been a target for Manchester United and Chelsea, but he is thought to favour a move to Liverpool - during a recent match his captain's armband allegedly slipped to reveal the words 'You'll never walk alone' printed on the reverse.
Atletico have finally agreed to sell Torres after failing to reach the UEFA Cup following a disappointing season in which their star striker still managed to score 14 goals.
One internet report suggests that Liverpool have despatched officials to Madrid in order to open talks with Atletico Madrid, who might be tempted by an offer of former player Luis Garcia in part exchange.

Hyypia to Newcastle??

Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia could make a long-awaited return to Newcastle United this summer.
The Finland international had a trial at St James' as a teenager under former boss Kevin Keegan, and while he is approaching the end of his career, his experience could prove invaluable with the Magpies' rearguard in need of a major overhaul.
Hyypia, who made 29 appearances last season but saw Jamie Carragher and Daniel Agger establish themselves as Rafael Benitez' first-choice central pairing, has reportedly rejected a move to Fulham.

Malouda might go to Chelsea

Chelsea are reportedly set to beat Liverpool to the signing of Lyon midfielder Florent Malouda.
The Frenchman has repeatedly stated his desire to move to the Premier League and Liverpool had been thought to be favourites for his signature.
However, it now appears Blues boss Jose Mourinho will make his fourth signing of the summer with Lassana Diarra moving in the opposite direction, possibly on loan, according to French radio station RMC.
Malouda said recently: "Liverpool and Chelsea have shown their interest. I don't know how it's going to end but in my head I'm going to leave (Lyon)."
He added: "At Chelsea there is Didier Drogba, as well as everybody else, but then at Liverpool, they have such a good coach and the team has played in two Champions League finals in three years.
"The most important thing for me will be the desire shown by the club. To go and play abroad, you really need to be wanted."
The fee is likely to be in the region of £17million for the 27 year-old international and if he signs he will follow the free transfer captures of Steve Sidwell, Claudio Pizarro and Tal Ben Haim at Stamford Bridge.

Bent might go to Spurs for first team football

England striker Darren Bent has reportely told Liverpool and Spurs he will join the club that offers him the most first team football.
Bent is set to leave the Valley this summer after Charlton were relegated last season, with Liverpool and Tottenham leading the race for his signature after he rejected a £17 million move to West Ham last week.
The England striker proved then that money is not his prime consideration by rejecting the Hammers' offer of around £75,000 a week and is said to be determined to be ready to join the club that can offer him the most football to boost his hopes of becoming a regular for his country.
Bent has been a member of the England squad since last season but is yet to play in a major championships and it is understood he has his sights set on playing for England at next year's European Championships - providing they qualify.
His desire to play regular first team football could make Tottenham the favourites to sign him, with Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez preferring to play with a lone striker at times.

Liverpool in Juventus talks for Chiellini loan

Juventus are in talks with Liverpool over the future of fullback Giorgio Chiellini.
The Italy U21 international has been a long-term target for Reds boss Rafa Benitez and Tuttosport says Juve are discussing a loan deal for the defender.
Juve are ready to make Chiellini available as they make room for the arrival of fullback Domenico Criscito, fresh from his time with Genoa, for the new season.

Giuly will not leave Barcelona

Ludovic Giuly will snub Celtic, Spurs, Newcastle, Liverpool and a host of other top European clubs and stay at Barcelona next season.The 30-year-old French winger had been linked with a number of clubs and his father was even quoted as saying his son was '80 per cent certain' to leave the Spanish runners-up. However, Giuly later said that his father had been misquoted and he will stay at the Nou Camp until at least the end of his current deal, which expires at the end of next season.He told RMC Info: 'I read that and I called my father, but he said to me that it was not what he had said. At the present time, I have a contract for another year in Barcelona and I want to stay in Barcelona.'I will see the directors and we will see what they offer me, since only I can decide - and I want to remain in Barcelona. If that is what I desire, nobody will be able to transfer me.'Giuly, who has been capped 17 times by the French national side, had also been linked with Newcastle, Liverpool and Spurs. While Giuly is a top player, he turns 31 next month and his wage demands may have been excessive.

NEW LIVERPOOL JERSEY

Take a look at the new Liverpool jersey for the new season.

WHY LUCAS LEIVA WILL BE A BIG HIT

Brazilian midfielder Lucas Leiva is set to be a big hit in the English game, according to South American football expert Tim Vickery.
Vickery believes the Liverpool-bound youngster, who captains Brazil Under-20s, has all the attributes necessary to succeed in Europe. "These moves are always a gamble but I think this is a good one," he said. "Lucas has two full seasons behind him - one helping Gremio win promotion from the second division and then last year's success when he was chosen as the player of the championship. "He's an exciting player of a type Brazilian football hasn't produced too many of recently. "Of late their central midfielders have tended to be 'holders' who sit and allow the full-backs to push forward. Lucas is different. He's a big, blonde figure whose power and physical strength comes with attacking ability. "He can pass well and loves to rumble forward. He gets on the scoresheet both with blistering shots from range and from bursting beyond the strikers. You can certainly imagine him playing alongside Javier Mascherano, for example." Leiva will arrive at Melwood in pre-season. His current club, Gremio, was also the breeding ground for Barcelona playmaker Ronaldinho and Manchester United newboy Anderson.

Roma, Juventus go for £12M Liverpool striker Bellamy

Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy will be offered a move to Serie A this summer.
The Daily Mail says Juventus and Roma will test Bellamy's determination to stay at Liverpool.
The Wales striker, 28 next month, believes he can still be a success at Anfield even though boss Rafa Benitez appears to be pointing him towards the exit. Bellamy did not play in last month's Champions League Final and Liverpool will listen to offers of £10million. Juventus are rebuilding for a return to Serie A under 'Tinkerman' Claudio Ranieri and have made the former Newcastle and Blackburn player a target.
Despite his reluctance to leave, Bellamy could be tempted by the chance to follow in the footsteps of boyhood idol Ian Rush, who left for Turin 20 years ago.

A swap deal is being mooted which would see Liverpool striker Craig Bellamy move to Itay's Roma this summer.
The Daily Mail says Roma are keen to bring the £10 million-rated Wales international to the Italian capital.
While Liverpool's asking price is out of Roma's range, a swap deal has been mooted with Reds boss Rafa Benitez keen on Brazilian winger Amantino Mancini.

Liverpool in talks with Zaragoza striker Milito

Liverpool are in talks with the representatives of Real Zaragoza striker Diego Milito.
The People says Reds boss Rafa Benitez has opened talks with Zaragoza star Milito.
The Liverpool manager has been tracking the Argentine striker for some time and was impressed with his 22-goal return in La Liga last season.

HYYPIA TO MARSEILLE

According to reports in France, Marseille are considering a move for Liverpool defender Sami Hyypia.
The two clubs have already been locked in negotiations regarding a permanent deal for Djibril Cisse, and France Football claims l'OM are also interested in the Finnish defender.
Liverpool have given no official indication as to whether Hyypia will survive Rafa Benitez's cull at Anfield this summer, but the player has previously revealed he believes he will remain on Merseyside.
If The Reds are reluctant to part company with Hyypia, then Marseille could well turn to former Arsenal defender Pascal Cygan, who now plies his trade with Villarreal in Spain.
Celta Vigo's Gabriel Tamas is also believed to be a prime target as Marseille plan for UEFA Champions League football next season.

Gillett: Reds on track

Liverpool co-owner George Gillett says the Anfield hierarchy remain firmly behind manager Rafa Benitez, despite a slow start to the summer in the transfer market.
Benitez has been promised major funds to bolster his Reds squad, but so far only Ukraine striker Andriy Voronin and Brazilian youngster Lucas Leiva have been brought in.
However, Gillett told The Times: "I sense a kind of pressure building from the media.
"I think the fans know that we have huge regard for Rafa. He has a number of initiatives and concepts and plans under way.
"We're not going to do something just to try to prove something. I can assure you that we are working on different things.
"What we've said and what Rafa has said was that we had a programme and he would share that with us and that we would support it.
"The first part was that we identified a number of our existing star players (Jose Reina, Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and Xabi Alonso) whom Rafa wanted to sign on long-term contracts.
"That was the first step and it has been done. Now we're moving on to phase two, which is bringing players in."
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Gerrard ties the knot today

Steven Gerrard will today enjoy his very own match of the day when he ties the knot with fiancee Alex Curran.
The Liverpool captain will celebrate his marriage in front of a star studded guest list in Berkshire. The couple's two young daughters Lily Ella, 2, and Lexie, 9 months, will be Alex's bridesmaids for the day. Everybody at Liverpool FC would like to send Steven and Alex their congratulations and wish them both every success in the future.

Benayoun asks to leave as Liverpool confirm £3m offer

The Israel midfielder Yossi Benayoun has indicated to West Ham United that he wishes to leave the club, having been unsettled by confirmation that Liverpool have made a bid of around £3m for him.
Rafael Benítez hopes to add Benayoun, whom he has tracked since his days at Racing Santander, to his ranks as he seeks further midfield options with Liverpool's chief executive, Rick Parry, confirming that a formal approach was made to West Ham last week. That offer was immediately rejected as the Londoners value the 27-year-old at nearer £5m.

Benítez remains optimistic of reaching a compromise to land the Israeli but the Merseysiders' long-standing interest in Darren Bent will only result in a transfer if Charlton Athletic radically reduce their valuation of the England forward. The Championship club had agreed to sell Bent to West Ham for £17m, only for the striker to reject the move following talks over personal terms at Upton Park.
Charlton have insisted that the valuation has effectively been set by West Ham's offer but Liverpool - who are competing with Tottenham Hotspur for his signature - would only be willing, and able, to offer around £10m for the 23-year-old. Furthermore, Benítez has other priorities to pursue in the market, with any deal potentially reliant on the sale of his Wales striker Craig Bellamy.

Bellamy to West Ham as exchange!!

Liverpool have confirmed they want West Ham star Yossi Benayoun and could be ready to offer Craig Bellamy in part-exchange.
The Reds were linked with a cut-price swoop for Israeli international Benayoun yesterday - a story that was later confirmed by their chief executive Rick Parry although he insisted talk of a £1million deal was wide of the mark.
The Hammers were said to be 'insulted' at what they viewed as an insufficient bid for one of their most talented players, who is now stalling on a new deal at Upton Park following news of the Reds' interest.
Parry said: "I can confirm we have made an approach for Yossi Benayoun, but the figures quoted are completely wrong. Other than that we don't want to say any more."
It is thought a deal in the region of £3million may be enough to land the attacking midfielder although a cash-plus-player deal involving Bellamy is also a distinct possibility.
The Welshman is among the strikers Alan Curbishley is now tracking, after Darren Bent snubbed a move to Upton Park, and he will be allowed to leave Anfield this summer.

Darren Bent to Liverpool?

Liverpool have emerged as shock contenders to sign Darren Bent after the England striker rejected a £17m move to West Ham.
Tottenham chiefs are also reported to have held talks late last night with a view to renewing their interest in the Charlton forward.

West Ham thought they had got their man, after agreeing a £75,000-a-week deal.
However, they were stunned as Bent changed his mind then Yossi Benayoun decided he wanted to pursue Liverpool's interest in him.
However, Charlton have not given up hope of keeping Bent at The Valley and Addicks chief executive Peter Varney said: "We set a valuation and West Ham are the only club to have met that valuation.
"Darren has decided not to join West Ham so we look forward to him starting with us in the Championship next season."

Dudek to Real Madrid? Fowler to Rangers?

Jerzy Dudek has admitted he is considering a move to Real Madrid after confirming the Spanish giants are interested in him.
Reports yesterday suggested the Polish keeper was an unlikely target for the La Liga side after being told by Reds boss Rafa Benitez he would not be offered a new deal at Anfield.
The hero of Istanbul has now confirmed that to be the case and the 34-year-old admits it is a move that is extremely appealing.
"After today's press speculation, I must admit that I have received an offer from one of the greatest clubs in the world, if not the greatest one," he said.
"I was able to keep it in the dark for a long time, because the first contact was established a dozen or so days ago. The offer is an honour for me. I am seriously considering it now. As for now, I can say that a few details have already been agreed upon."
Meanwhile, another released player, Robbie Fowler, is said to be considering an offer from Scottish giants Rangers although there is said to be interest from other clubs for the striker, both abroad and in the Premiership.

GERRARD NEEDS A BREAK

Steven Gerrard has confessed he is desperate for a rest after two years of near constant football.
The World Cup denied Gerrard a break last summer, and the Liverpool skipper admits he is feeling the effects after another gruelling domestic season. "I desperately need a rest, it's as simple as that. I'm worn out," he said. "Two and a half weeks off after the World Cup wasn't enough to prepare for a hectic season which included going all the way in the Champions League final and playing for England. "It's been a difficult season for me, but I'm getting married next week and I've got four weeks to try and put my feet up. "The international players get an extra week and I've got to make the most of it to make sure I'm in good shape for the new season. "Demands on players at the highest level can be excessive. It's a no-win situation because the more success you have the more games you have to play. "But it's going to be a big season next year for club and country. Domestically Liverpool have to improve and for England we have to build on recent performances and make sure we qualify for Euro 2008."