Alonso to request transfer

Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso has reportedly told Rafa Benitez that he wants to leave the club this summer, with Arsenal and Real Madrid both watching very closely.

The Spanish international midfielder never hidden his desire to return to his homeland, but the lure of Arsene Wenger and Arsenal, and a link up with best friend Cesc Fabregas, could be too much for the Spaniard to turn down.

Figures of £20 million have been thrown around in the press of late, but it is more likely the Gunners will offer closer to £10 million for the centre midfielder.

Alonso will formally request a transfer when the season has drawn to a close.