Reds kill Alonso Real rumours

Xabi Alonso's reported £20million-plus move to Real Madrid was rebuffed by Liverpool ahead of their final game of the season against Spurs.

Reports last week indicated the Reds will cash in on Alonso to fund a summer transfer spending spree as Rafa Benitez attempts to prise the title away from Old Trafford.



The Spanish midfielder was set to leave the club last summer had Benitez landed Gareth Barry, and fresh speculation suggested that the final game of the season at Anfield would be his last.



And the talk only heightened when Benitez pulled out of his weekly media conference at short notice.



However, assistant Sammy Lee said: "The talk about Alonso (going to Real Madrid) is pure speculation. You cannot prevent talk.



"We always want to keep the spine of the team, our very best players. You can't stop speculation, but we want to keep the core of our squad, the best players, here.



"New players will be brought in. You always want to keep improving on the field compared to what we have done this season.



"There is a platform now to go forward and hopefully win the title, but we have to get the best out of this squad to do it."



Later Benitez added: "It's very clear, Xabi has three years left and we do not want to sell him".



The Liverpool coach confirmed the club were looking to spend in the summer but denied they have mega-bucks to splash out.



"We have some money, not big money. But for me now it is not about how much, but how good they are for us."