Real Madrid midfielder Xabi Alonso wants to return to Liverpool.

The Daily Star Sunday says Xabi's current deal has 18 months to run and the Spanish giants won't start talks until the summer.

But by then, Alonso, 31, will already have decided on his future, with a desire to link up once more with his great friend, Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.

Alonso and Gerrard talk regularly with the Kop star saying: "Xabi Alonso is the best midfielder I have played with. I miss playing with him."

Now Gerrard looks like getting his wish with Alonso determined to return to Anfield before he hangs up his boots.