Liverpool have dismissed claims that they have accepted a renewed bid from Real Madrid for Xabi Alonso. Spanish newspapers said the clubs had agreed a fee of around £31 million late last night, but the Anfield club have moved quickly to scotch these reports by insisting the Spanish international remains a Liverpool player.

“Xabi is with us in Singapore and will train with the rest of the squad,” a club spokesman said. “He was injured ahead of the Thailand game, people can say what they like about that. And there has been no deal agreed with anyone for his transfer to anyone.”

Rafael Benitez, the Liverpool manager, also played down the reports on his arrival in Singapore, by claiming that Alonso was ready to play for the club in Sunday’s friendly against the Singapore national team.

“Alonso is here and he will enjoy the weather and the fans and the journalists,” he said. “He is ready and can play.”

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Despite Liverpool’s firm denial, Miguel Pardeza, the Real sporting director, said he still holds out hope that a deal can be agreed.

“It’s at a standstill,” he said. “From day one, Liverpool have asked for more than Madrid are ready to pay and it’s very difficult to understand. But I’ve not lost hope that things can be resolved.”

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