Alonso - He's on his way ( fingers crossed )
Posted: Mon Aug 16, 2004 1:43 pmALONSO SET FOR REDS
SKY Sports 16 August 2004
Liverpool appear to have won the race for the signature of Spanish international Xabi Alonso after agreeing a deal with Real Sociedad.
The Reds have agreed a 16 million deal for the highly-rated midfielder, with just a few minor issues to be resolved before the move can be completed.
Alonso's agent Inaki Ibanez concluded affairs with Liverpool officials after a weekend of talks in London, with the player set to sign a five-year deal at Anfield.
Ibanez revealed to skysports.com that personal terms have been agreed and all that needs to be resolved is the method of payment between both clubs.
"The crossing of Xabi Alonso to Liverpool practically is done," Ibanez told skysports.com.
"On the part of the player everything is closed and now there are only small details between clubs to be done."
The 22-year-old is expected to arrive in England on Thursday to seal his move to Liverpool after playing for Spain in their friendly with Venezuela.
Sociedad president Jose Luis Astiazaran confirmed the move, revealing Liverpool's offer was the most concrete.
"The most serious offer from all the teams has been from Liverpool who have been interested in our player," said Astiazaran.
It was feared that long-term suitors Real Madrid may hijack Liverpool's move for Alonso after seeing their deal for Patrick Vieira collapse, but the Spaniard seems set to become Rafa Benitez's second signing of the summer.
£16 million is a bit steep though. Still don't know about Garcia or Mista!
SKY Sports 16 August 2004
Liverpool appear to have won the race for the signature of Spanish international Xabi Alonso after agreeing a deal with Real Sociedad.
The Reds have agreed a 16 million deal for the highly-rated midfielder, with just a few minor issues to be resolved before the move can be completed.
Alonso's agent Inaki Ibanez concluded affairs with Liverpool officials after a weekend of talks in London, with the player set to sign a five-year deal at Anfield.
Ibanez revealed to skysports.com that personal terms have been agreed and all that needs to be resolved is the method of payment between both clubs.
"The crossing of Xabi Alonso to Liverpool practically is done," Ibanez told skysports.com.
"On the part of the player everything is closed and now there are only small details between clubs to be done."
The 22-year-old is expected to arrive in England on Thursday to seal his move to Liverpool after playing for Spain in their friendly with Venezuela.
Sociedad president Jose Luis Astiazaran confirmed the move, revealing Liverpool's offer was the most concrete.
"The most serious offer from all the teams has been from Liverpool who have been interested in our player," said Astiazaran.
It was feared that long-term suitors Real Madrid may hijack Liverpool's move for Alonso after seeing their deal for Patrick Vieira collapse, but the Spaniard seems set to become Rafa Benitez's second signing of the summer.
£16 million is a bit steep though. Still don't know about Garcia or Mista!
