Real Madrid have sounded out Rafa Benitez about his plans at Liverpool, it has been revealed. Sport says a representative of Real made contact directly with Benitez last week to ask about his situation. The conversation was short, but Benitez is now aware he is back on Real's radar.

Manuel Pellegrini is losing the confidence of Real's board over his man-management and use of the club's Castilla - particularly in contrast to the success Barcelona has had this season with the likes of Pedro and Sergio Busquets.

A majority of president Florentino Perez's football staff now favour moving for Benitez at the end of the season.

The problem for Real is that Benitez is committed to his job at Liverpool. He also has a moral commitment to players like Fernando Torres, Steven Gerrard and Javier Mascherano, who have all turned down offers out of loyalty to the Spaniard.