Football Corner

According to several reports today, Liverpool are interested in bringing in Real Madrid midfielder Mahamadou Diarra at the expense of current Reds midfielder Xabi Alonso.

It was confirmed today by Diarra's agent that Liverpool had contacted him about the availability of the 26-year old.

"We were also contacted by Liverpool, Milan and Juventus. Diarra still has three years left on his contract but we're willing to listen to all the offers and then we will talk to Real and see what is decided." Frederic Guerra (Diarra's agent), told the News of the World.

Diarra has been at Real since leaving French side Lyon back in 2006 and has made over 50 appearances for the La Liga giants. He has lost his place in recent months to the in form Gago and this has led to intense speculation about his future at the club.

Meanwhile, it is thought that Liverpool will have to offload another midfielder before they can even think of bringing in Diarra and the man to make way could be Xabi Alonso. The 26-year old is attracting the attentions of Spanish giants Barcelona.

Alonso has been linked with several moves away from Anfield in recent months after losing his place to Javier Mascherano and several sides including Atletico Madrid are said to be interested in the former Real Sociedad man.

All in all I think it would be a good deal for the Reds to bring in a player of the quality of Diarra. He is a very strong and physical central midfield player and would be a terrific replacement for Alonso if he were to leave Rafa Benitez' side.