by Guillem Balague
I can only say that this is a very complicated situation and I am hearing conflicting versions of events: the player`s entourage are denying that Xabi Alonso has handed in a transfer request; while on the other hand, Liverpool Football Club insists that a transfer request was submitted to the club last night, and it has been suggested that the paperwork was prepared at least a month in advance.
I am of the opinion that the decision to make this public knowledge represents an attempt to speed up the negotiations while simultaneously making it known that it is the player who wants to leave.
As has been widely reported, Rafa Benitez had effectively placed a 48 hour deadline on the deal and it is apparent that Liverpool want this matter resolved once and for all, today, so that they can plan for life with, or without, Alonso from tomorrow. However, Real Madrid – or should we say Florentino Perez – may stubbornly refuse to be seen to pressured into reacting to any ultimatum and, furthermore, the Spanish club are encountering difficulties in offloading players to raise funds and free up space in an overloaded squad.
On the other hand, it is possible that a fee could be agreed today and that Liverpool accept an immediate first instalment with subsequent payments made at a later date covering the total amount.
The ball has now been placed in Real Madrid`s court and it is impossible to second guess what their next move will be. It is evident that at least one party wants the matter resolved today, but whether or not they get their wish remains to be seen.
