Get Real !

Rafael Benitez today reacted to speculation that Real Madrid are keen to sign Steven Gerrard. Steven Gerrard's name appearing in transfer reports is no shock to Liverpool, but as Real Madrid's potential interest emerged just four days before the FA Cup semi-final, Anfield should get used to the fact there will be a third summer of such speculation.

Stevie G's name appearing in transfer reports is no shock to LFC, but as Real Madrid's potential interest emerged just four days before the FA Cup semi-final, Anfield should get used to the fact there will be a third summer of such speculation.

Requests for a comment from Liverpool on the latest link to Real was met with a curt and weary "no comment".

Floro, Real's director of football, was charged identifying transfer targets, recently delivered a report to new president Fernando Martin with his findings which included the proposal of his recommendations on possible signings saying:

"I recommended, as a priority, the signing of a powerful centre forward, like Adriano, and a top class midfielder in case (Zinedine) Zidane leaves. Gerrard is a footballer I include in that list, he is a player the club have wanted to sign in previous seasons."

But identifying Gerrard as a potential target for one of Europe's top clubs is hardly rocket science and with the World Cup approaching, a stage Gerrard could well dominate, the prospect of a long list of suitors wanting the Liverpool skipper is very likely.

Gerrard signed a new Anfield deal during the summer after deciding to commit his future to the European champions, but that hasn't dissuaded Madrid from airing their interest in the player.

However, Benitez isn't at all concerned by the speculation and is adamant his skipper will be a Liverpool player next season. He said:

"The situation is very clear. Steven Gerrard is not for sale."