Tottenham boss Harry Redknapp wants to test how much patience
Rafa Benitez has lost with the striker, who was an unused sub
during yesterday’s 3-1 win at Blackburn. But even if Rafa looked to
cash in, the Anfield board would need convincing of the merits, as
the Merseysiders’ would inevitably have to accept a loss.
They agreed to pay Spurs £20m in instalments, which means
Redknapp could offer part of the summer fee and waive the estimated
£10m still owed.
Keane’s dream move to Merseyside has gone sour just five months
into his Anfield career as he’s struggled with confidence and form.
He effectively has until the end of the month to convince his
manager Spurs’ interest should be rebuffed as Rafa plots a radical
shake-up of his squad in January.
Benitez wants funds to remedy summer transfer mistakes, none of
whom started at Ewood Park. Liverpool’s recent signings have failed
to have an impact, with only Albert Riera acquitting himself
reasonably well.
Left back Andrea Dossena, who cost £7m from Udinese, will be
offloaded back to Italy at the first opportunity. Right-back
Phillip Degen, who was given a £2m signing on fee and
£38,000-a-week salary when he joined from Borussia Dortmund, hasn’t
featured in the Premier League due to a succession of injuries.
Rafa wants to bring Emile Heskey back to Anfield for £3m, as
well as two full-backs to compete with Fabio Aurelio and Alvaro
Arbeloa.
There are those at Anfield who still hope Rafa can be convinced
into a rethink on Michael Owen at the right price, especially if
Keane is sold, but the manager opposes the idea.
Keane grew up as a Liverpool fan and always wanted to become a
idol on the Kop. After starting at Wolves, he had spells at
Coventry, Inter Milan and Leeds before finally settling at Spurs,
where he became club captain.
Last season he formed one of best partnerships in the Premier
League with Dimitar Berbatov but could not resist the lure of
Anfield. But he has only scored four goals for the Reds, has played
90 minutes just three times and been substituted 15 times.
