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Liverpool Target Udinese's Gokhan Inler, But Concerned By Price - Report

With two of their key midfielders being pursued by Barca and Real Madrid, Liverpool are said to be looking for cover...

Jul 3, 2009 11:30:25 PM

Gokhan Inler, Udinese (Foto Grazia Neri)

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Gokhan Inler, Udinese (Foto Grazia Neri)

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Gökhan Inler

With Real Madrid still expected to make a move for Xabi Alonso, and Barcelona targeting Javier Mascherano, Liverpool are reportedly eyeing Udinese star Gokhan Inler should their midfield be depleted by the Spanish giants.

Inler's agent earlier today revealed that while several English Premier League clubs are interested in signing Inler, the Swiss international himself would prefer to remain in Serie A.

That does not seem to have deterred Arsenal, long linked with Inler - and now the Daily Mail is reporting that Liverpool are targeting the player should they lose Alonso to Madrid.

However, according to the newspaper, Reds' boss Rafael Benitez is deterred by Udinese's £18 million asking price; the Mail claims that Rafa would be reluctant to bid more than £10m for the player.

While Udinese would be reluctant to see Inler leave, they are unlikely to lower their valuation to that extent, so if Liverpool really are serious about snaring the midfielder, they will clearly have to raise their offer.

Graham Lister, Goal.com