Transfer Speculation: Fernandez, Distin, Turner

Liverpool are said to be looking for cover in the central defence area after Sami Hyypia’s departure and fitness worries for both Martin Skrtel and Daniel Agger nursing hamstring and back injuries respectively. A number of suitors are being touted by the press:

Leandro Fernandez, Sylvain Distin, Michael Turner

Dynamo Moscow central defender Leandro Fernandez has been linked with a move to Liverpool. The 26-year-old Argentinean was named the club's player of the season in his first year after joining from River Plate and does not need a work permit as he has an Italian passport.

The Mail claims: “Liverpool are weighing up a number of targets for central defence including Hull's Michael Turner and Sylvain Distin from Portsmouth but Fernandez is another they have held informal discussions over.”

However, he “would not come cheap though with Moscow looking for around £8m and he is cup-tied in Europe until the new year,” claims the article.

The Guardian says: “Benítez's next move is likely to be for a central defender. Portsmouth's Sylvain Distin is a possible target for the Liverpool manager, as is Michael Turner, but Hull's valuation of the defender far exceeds what Benítez is prepared to pay.”

Transfer Speculation: Arbeloa, Itandje, Fernandez

Alvaro Arbeloa

Real Madrid have made a five million Euros bid for Alvaro Arbeloa claims today's Echo. Rafa Benitez yesterday claimed he would like for the player to stay at Anfield stating the player had "a very good season but he has one year left on his contract,” said the Reds boss. “If he signs that will be good because we will have more competition," however Rafa admitted that "if we get a good offer we will have to consider it.”

The deal is worth £4.2m at current exchange rates and the article claims "Benitez is holding out for £5m pounds, and with Arbeloa's agent, Manuel Garcia Quilon, at the Bernabeu yesterday to facilitate the move, a deal looks imminent."

Real Madrid director, Jorge Valdano speaking to Spanish newspaper 'AS' said:

"The lad only has a year left on his contract with Liverpool, and this gives us more possibilities. He can play in two or three positions, and this versatility is good. He is another option to evaluate."

Reported by Sky Sports, Arbeloa has spoken about Real Madrid to Spanish newspaper 'Marca':

"I am especially proud of what the club is doing," said the Spain defender, who is in South Africa for the Confederations Cup. It is a big project with the return of Florentino (Perez) - and obviously if Madrid is fixed on you it makes you proud. I would be lying if I said I was sure to start the season with Liverpool. I'll be able to think about all this by next Monday."

Charles Itandje

Malaga are reported to be interested in signing reserve keeper Charles Itandje. Scouts have reported positive feedback and an official move is now expected to be made, claim Sky Sports.

Leandro Fernandez

Liverpool are interested in Dynamo Moscow defender Leandro Fernandez reports website football. The article says the "Reds and Lazio have both held preliminary talks with Dynamo." But the club is "reluctant to let the Argentine leave for less than £8.5million."