Van Nistelrooy prefers Reds move

Ruud van Nistelrooy is prepared to turn down the chance to join Arsenal in the January transfer window in an attempt to secure a move to Liverpool, his preferred destination - if he is allowed to leave Real Madrid.

The former Manchester United striker has intimated to his advisers that he wishes to move to Anfield as back-up to Fernando Torres, despite discreet inquiries on behalf of Arsene Wenger, the Arsenal manager.
 
The Frenchman is also considering a bid for Andre-Pierre Gignac, the Toulouse striker, after sending scouts to watch him play on several occasions this season.
 
Dutch international Van Nistelrooy has found himself on the fringes at the Bernabeu this season following the arrivals of Cristiano Ronaldo, Karim Benzema and Kaka, for a combined total of almost £170 million, in the summer.
 
Van Nistelrooy has also fallen behind Gonzalo Higuain, the Argentine international, and Raul in manager Manuel Pellegrini's plans.
 
Van Nistelrooy remains hopeful of retaining his place in Bert van Marwijk's Holland squad for the World Cup finals next summer but is believed to be conscious of his need to play more regularly if he is to do so.
 
Despite the wealth of their attacking options, Real are not thought to be keen to part with the former Manchester United striker in January, as president Florentino Perez does not wish to weaken the resources at Pellegrini's disposal. The player's wish to leave, though, may force his hand.
 
Rafael Benitez, the Liverpool manager, will be handed some funds to reinforce his squad when the January transfer window opens, with an experienced striker likely to be his priority, although Emile Heskey remains his preferred option.
 
Real are prepared to sell Mahamadou Diarra, the central midfielder, as well as Van Nistelrooy's international team-mate Rafael van der Vaart. Tottenham are believed to be monitoring the former, while despite speculation, no Premier League sides are thought to be in the race for the latter.

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