David Silva rumours gather pace

Transfer Speculation

Speculation regarding David Silva has gathered pace overnight. A number of media outlets are claiming a deal may be close. The Mail’s ‘transfer insider’ column says that: Benitez is a long-time admirer of the 23-year-old and wants to bring extra quality into his squad, but the Liverpool boss will have to make sacrifices elsewhere to find the cash. Real Madrid and Barcelona remain interested and have greater funds available, but Silva would like to go to Anfield. His arrival could mean Benitez having to ff-load Albert Riera.”

The Telegraph is also chipping in with: “Benitez is said to have launched another bid to sign David Silva from Valencia. The Spain international tops Benitez's wish list this summer, and Liverpool are believed to have offered £15 million plus Andrei Voronin.” Elsewhere the paper says: “Valencia winger David Silva is believed to be Benitez's primary target, though the manager admits he will have to spend wisely after being given just £20 million to spend, on top of whatever he raises from player sales.”

4thegame.com claims: “The Reds are reported to have stolen a march on their rivals though with a £15million offer that would also see Voronin head to the Mestella.”

The Daily Mirror is also running the story, but also warns that we may face competition from, whom else? Real Madrid. The article says: “Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has launched his bid to sign Valencia forward David Silva. Spain's Euro 2008 winner Silva tops the Anfield wanted list and Valencia may have to sell cheaply because of their dire financial problems. Liverpool are believed to have made an initial offer of £15million plus misfit forward Andriy Voronin. But Real Madrid are waiting in the wings for Silva.”

Newly elected Madrid president Florentino Perez appears to be throwing every name into the barrel in an effort to resurrect to his ‘Galactico’ ethos. Let’s hope they run out of money in a bidding war with Chelsea for Milan marvel Kaka.

goal.com have added their assessment of the situation by stating: "Silva is high on Rafa's wish list and Valencia may have to sell as soon as possible because of their financial situation," a source close to Liverpool told Goal.com. Liverpool are said to have made an offer of £15 million along with striker [Andriy] Voronin. However, Real Madrid could also be looking at the midfielder. Silva has often expressed a preference to remain in Spain, but Liverpool scout Eduardo Marcia, who discovered Silva as a youth, could play an influential part in negotiations."