Liverpool are bracing themselves for the loss of star midfielder Xabi Alonso.
The Spaniard has informed the club he is keen to move on with Real Madrid looking almost certain to be his new home.
After plenty of speculation, Alonso handed in a transfer request following his decision to verbally inform manager Rafael Benitez that his five-year stint at the club was about to be over.
It is believed the clubs will agree a fee in the £28million region despite the fact the Reds had valued him at £30million.