Transfer News: Arsenal Suffer Blow In Striker Pursuit, Liverpool Make Alonso Enquiry

Despite the transfer window being closed there is still plenty of gossip doing the rounds in the newspapers so we’ll keep you up-to-date with the latest transfer rumours. Today, Arsenal suffer a blow in their pursuit of Alessandro Matri while Liverpool are linked with Xabi Alonso.

Matri wants Juve stay

Arsenal have been dealt a blow with the news that striker target Alessandro Matri wants to stay at Juventus despite his bit-part role at the club, according to talkSPORT.

The 28-year-old has struggled for game-time in Serie A this season, starting just seven games so far and making a further 9 substitute appearances. talkSPORT claim Arsenal have been keeping an eye on his situation ahead of a potential summer move but it seems the striker is happy in Turin, claiming he’d rather stay and fight for his place at Juve rather than move clubs to get more guaranteed first team action.

“It’s clear that I want to play in every game, but I’ve always felt like the club have backed me, that they have always been close to me. That’s a nice thing for players who are not used all of the time.

“When I’ve been called into action I’ve been ready and the side hasn’t missed who I have replaced. If I am made to feel like an important player then I would prefer to stay at Juventus, rather than join another club who could perhaps offer me more playing time.” Matri is quoted as saying by talkSPORT

However, Matri did give the Gunners some hope by saying he will consider a move if he ‘loses faith’ at Juve and feels it better to change clubs. He continued:

“If the time comes where you start to lose faith then it is better to change clubs. Yet that moment hasn’t arrived yet. If it does then it will be me who asks to leave.”

Alonso back to Liverpool?

Could Xabi Alonso make a sensational return to Anfield? Well the Daily Mail claim Liverpool are keeping a close eye on his contract situation and have even made enquiries over his availability.

Alonso enjoyed a hugely successful five years at Liverpool between 2004-2009 before making the move to Real Madrid, where he has continued to impress at the heart of midfield. However, the 31-year-old is out of contract in 2014 and is understood to be stalling over signing a contract extension.

The Mail claim the Spanish giants are keen to keep hold of Alonso but the player looks to be considering his options with boss Jose Mourinho set to leave the Bernabeu this summer. The newspaper reports that Liverpool are keeping a close eye on the situation and have already made enquiries in recent months over the players availability.

Read more Arsenal transfer news | Liverpool transfer news

What do Arsenal and Liverpool fans make of this? Do Gooners think the club need a new striker? If so, who? Would Liverpool fans like to see Alonso come back to Anfield? Get involved in the comments section below.