Liverpool want £35 million for want-away midfielder Xabi Alonso.

The Times says the Spain midfield player said his goodbyes to some members of the club's staff last night.

However, Real Madrid, with whom the player has been linked, have not yet made an official offer.

Alonso's relationship with Rafael Benítez has been troubled since the Liverpool manager began his pursuit of Gareth Barry last year. Although Benítez wants to keep the 27-year-old, there is a growing acceptance at Anfield that the player is likely to move to Real.