Apparently Rafa B has a fall-back plan if they fail to snare Aston Villa Gareth Barry.
Gareth Barry’s hopes of a swift end to his transfer stalemate hinge on showdown talks between Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez and Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso.
Spain midfielder Alonso hopes to stay at Anfield, but his club are inviting offers.
He will return to training this week to state his case. But unless he is sold, then Aston Villa and England star Barry has little chance of joining Liverpool.
If the Reds cannot do a deal with Villa, then they will shift their thoughts to Middlesbrough’s Stewart Downing. (News of the World)
Gareth Southgate and Steve Gibson have repeatedly claimed that £12m-rated Downing is going nowhere, but the winger himself issued comments at the close of last season that seemed to suggest he would be open to a new challenge. Aston Villa are also said to be interested in the winger. Do Liverpool fans think that the England international could be a useful signing for the club?