Real Madrid Coach Manuel Pellegrini Still Wants Xabi Alonso

Even though it was reported that Real Madrid has given up hope on signing midfileder Xabi Alonso, coach Manuel Pellegrini has not given up hope of signing the Liverpool midfielder, although the Bernabeu boss knows it will not be easy.

It is believed that the Reds manager Rafa Benitez is eager to keep the Spanish international at Anfield for the coming and has already called on the player he plucked from relative obscurity at Real Sociedad to stay “loyal” to Liverpool.

It has been reported that Real Madrid are looking to strengthen the central midfield area following their spending spree on the likes of Portuguese winger Cristiano Ronaldo and Brazilian playmaker Kaka.

Pellegrini told reporters that it is not a mystery that Real Madrid are interested in signing Alonso but it is not going to be easy.

The manager also added that the club is also looking at alternatives for some positions. He said that the attack is complete and perhaps a central midfielder or fullback is still missing but the rest of the positions are covered.

Local Spanish newspapers have reported earlier this week that Alonso had telephoned Benitez to ask his permission to leave Liverpool and move to Real Madrid. The newspaper reported that a bid by Real Madrid around the region of €35m would be enough to secure the signing of the 27-year-old.

But it is believed that the Premier League club are apparently asking for up to €50m for the player and although negotiations are yet to agree a compromise figure, Real sporting director Miguel Pardeza said that the deal was certainly not dead.

Pardeza said that Real Madrid will not discard an option until it is truly impossible and said that at the moment there is an insurmountable economic barrier but that is something that can be changed.