Bonera may resolve centre-back search

Bonera may resolve centre-back search

Aug 31 2005

By Ian Doyle, Daily Post Staff

RAFAEL BENITEZ has turned to Parma centre-back Daniele Bonera as he faces a
race against time to bolster Liverpool's defensive options.

The Anfield manager was locked in discussions with chief executive Rick
Parry yesterday concerning possible targets, with the transfer window
closing at midnight.

And 24-year-old Bonera has emerged as the latest name to be linked with a
move after Parma revealed the European Cup holders' interest in the
£5million-rated Italian international.

"The club's shareholders have told me not to sell Bonera, but Liverpool
continue to raise their offer and are very interested," said Parma's
sporting director Oreste Cinquini.

"If they reach a certain level I will have to contact the club's board
against and reconsider our plans."

Lorenzo Sanz, the former Real Madrid president, bought the club earlier this
month after it faced financial ruin following the collapse of owners
Parmalat.

Liverpool face competition from Inter Milan and another Serie A side for
Bonera.

Benitez is also hopeful of attracting a right-sided midfielder to Anfield,
with Nolberto Solano available for £1.5m from Aston Villa.

Meanwhile, Liverpool yesterday confirmed the signing of 17-year-old Austrian
winger Besian Idrizaj and Welsh under-21 striker Ramon Calliste.

Idrizaj, Austria's current young player of the year, has signed a two-year
deal from Linzer ASK.

Striker Calliste, 19, has signed a one-year deal after being released by
Manchester United at the end of last season.



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