Real Madrid boss Benitez reveals Sterling admiration
The former Napoli boss, unveiled as los Blancos’ new manager on Wednesday, admits the club are big fans of the Liverpool winger, but would not be drawn on David De Gea rumours
New Real Madrid boss Rafa Benitez admits Liverpool contract rebel Raheem Sterling is a player the club admire, though refused to be drawn any further on his transfer plans.
The 20-year-old has told Liverpool that he intends to leave the club this summer, with controversial agent Aidy Ward insisting his client would not be staying even if he were offered £900,000 per week.
Liverpool subsequently cancelled planned talks over a new agreement while Real Madrid coach Zinedine Zidane has previously revealed the Liga giants are monitoring Sterling’s progression.
When asked on Real’s possible interest, Benitez – who signed Sterling for Liverpool in 2010 – reaffirmed Zidane’s stance but refused to divuldge further: “We admire Raheem, that’s no secret.
“But he is not one of our players so I can’t really comment on him.”
Benitez, who was talking at his official unveiling as Real Madrid’s new head coach, was also coy when questioned on a move for Manchester United goalkeeper David De Gea.
The 24-year-old is a transfer priority for Real, with the Spanish club seeing De Gea as the ideal long-term replacement for Iker Casillas at the Bernabeu.
As revealed by Goal, Keylor Navas has emerged as possible makeweight in any potential deal for De Gea and Benitez was again reluctant to discuss transfer targets.
“I like the way you have tried to sneak that question under the radar but we will evaluate everything in time,” Benitez said. “We will not name names today.”
){kind=link}
Comments