Rafa Benitez’s worst fears were confirmed yesterday as Real Madrid’s new president confirmed his interest in the Liverpool playmaker, just as the Argentinean striker Ezequiel Lavezzi confirmed his desire to join the Rafalution at Anfield.

Xabi Alonso is reported to be upset with how Benitez treated him last season when he was nearly sold to fund the purchase of Gareth Barry – a move which fell through. Alonso enjoyed a returned to form at Anfield under the 4231 system favoured by Benitez which gave the Spaniard freedom to make his trademark range of passes in the middle of midfield.

Were Alonso to leave for Madrid Benitez has said it would only be for a ‘huge offer’.

By contrast one of his main targets of the summer is demanding his current club Napoli do not stand in his way of moving to Anfield for the new season.

Lavezzi has been courted by Manchester City but the pull of a big club like Liverpool, playing in the Champions League and challenging for the top honours will be enough to persuade him to join Liverpool. Lavezzi can play either upfront or in midfield making him the perfect back up for Fernando Torres as Benitez looks to strengthen his options upfront to make another bid for that elusive Premier League title next season.