Ever since Rafa Benitez tried to sell Alonso last summer to fund a move for Aston Villa’s Gareth Barry, rumours have persisted that Alonso wanted to leave the club, and understandably so. One season and a return to top form later and Alonso is rumoured to be on the brink of a £35 million move to Real Madrid or Barcelona and this time his manager is trying to keep him at the club.

Alonso has been fairly even handed when directly quoted about a possible move, saying he is happy to stay at Liverpool, but he also could not rule out a move back to Spain.

Benitez is under pressure to keep Alonso as he knows Alonso’s midfield partner Javier Mascherano is also wanted by Barcelona – the departure of both players would be a disaster for Liverpool’s title hopes.

Both players were integral to Liverpool’s title challenge last year and, along with club captain Steven Gerrard, make up a formidable midfield 3, arguably the best in the Premier League.

The ‘clear the air talks’ could be Alonso looking for reassurances or they could be him declaring he wants to be allowed to move.

It will be a nervous few days for Liverpool fans until it is known either way.