Reds won't be held to ransom on Albert Riera
LIVERPOOL are ready to walk away from Espanyol winger Albert Riera, rather than get drawn into another bidding war this summer.
The Spanish side reacted to renewed Reds interest in the 26-year-old by invoking a £16m release clause.
But if Espanyol refuse to lower their demands to something around the £9m mark, Liverpool will instantly switch their attentions to Middlesbrough's Stewart Downing.
The summer-long pursuit of Gareth Barry has caused internal strife at Anfield and the Reds cannot afford another prolonged saga.
England international Downing would be a more affordable option at £12m and would fulfil the preferred criteria of adding another English player to the squad.
Riera's agent, Magico Diaz, confirmed: "Liverpool want Riera but are reluctant to meet Espanyol's demands."
There are still 12 days to go before the transfer deadline is reached on September 1, but Benitez wants to complete his summer spending as soon as possible.
Rafa Benitez, meanwhile, hopes to welcome back Ryan Babel from Olympic Games duty today and declares that this could be a "big season" for the Dutch winger.
"It's bad news for Holland that they went out but it means we get a player back," said the Reds boss.
"Hopefully he can be here either today or tomorrow to train with the rest of his team-mates.
"He has been playing important games so I don't think there will be any problems with his fitness, but our doctor and fitness coaches will check with him and then we will see about the weekend. I am sure he will be okay. If he trains normally then he can be available for Middlesbrough."
Benitez is hoping for an impact from the Dutchman this season.
"He's one year older and more experienced now," he added. "He knows the club, he knows his team-mates and so I'm sure this could be a big season for him."
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