Liverpool's £13.9million bid for Real Madrid midfielder Asier Illarramendi has been knocked back. Spanish publication Marca is reporting that Illarramendi is determined to remain at the Santiago Bernabeu and fight for his spot in Madrid's first XI.

The 25-year-old, who has also been the subject of interest from Arsenal, is hopeful the arrival of new coach Rafa Benitez will open the door for more regular first-team action.