Benitez dismisses Alonso rumour

Rafa Benitez has denied rumours that Xabi Alonso is heading for the exit door if Gareth Barry is brought to Liverpool from Aston Villa in the summer. The Spanish midfielder has been linked with a move to Valencia or Barcelona.

Benitez told The Independent: "(Alonso) is our player, he has a contract. Barry can play in three different positions, so I don't think we need to worry about this."

There have been rumours that Alonso is reportedly unhappy at Liverpool and at his lack of opportunities in the first-team, despite regularly appearing this year. No official word has come from the club or player regarding this.

Alonso is valued at around £12 million.