By Football Talk.
Reports emerged yesterday that Chelsea had moved a step closer to signing Liverpool’s Yossi Benayoun after agreeing terms with the player. According to Israeli Sport 5, the 30-year-old had agreed a four-year contract and will undergo a medical in the next few days before completing the deal. However, those reports now appear to be premature as it’s been claimed today that Liverpool have yet to recieve any formal offer from the Londoners.
The Israeli international had a decent season on Merseyside, scoring 9 goals in 42 appearances, and was some-what of a crowd favourite. But Benayoun fell out of favour with then Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez towards the end of last season and stated that the uncertainty surrounding the club’s future may force him out of Anfield.
Reports last month broke news of Chelsea’s interest and Benayoun publicly expressed his desire to move to London and play at Stamford Bridge next season.
“[Chelsea Manager Carlo] Ancelotti wants me for next season and now everything depends on Liverpool. Chelsea will have to pay some £6million but I believe that in the end I’ll be moving there,” he then said.
The transfer is still expected to be completed within the next week but it’s not clear exactly how much Chelsea will pay Liverpool for his services. Benayoun has three years left on his current Liverpool contract and it’s thought the Reds have been holding out for around £10m to release the midfielder, whereas Chelsea value him nearer £5m.
