Real Madrid are expected to step up their £30 million bid for Liverpool midfielder Xabi Alonso.

The Guardian says Real's interest in Alonso is expected to gather pace following the Confederations Cup with the midfielder noncommittal on his future while the competition is in progress.

Unlike Javier Mascherano, who manager Rafa Benítez has declared is not for sale at any price amid interest from Barcelona, Liverpool may be receptive to a substantial offer for a player who endured a strained relationship with the manager last season.