Wayne Bridge has emerged as a surprise transfer target for
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez, who has failed in another attempt
to take Gabriel Heinze to Anfield. Benitez attempted to sign Heinze
from Manchester United last summer, but the Argentina left back
moved to Real Madrid.
Although both players have played in the Champions League this
season, Benitez is building for the long term and Bridge is one of
a number of left backs on his shortlist. Chelsea would be reluctant
to sell one of their assets to another top four club, but Bridge
may agitate for the move to go through in the transfer window after
another season spent largely on the sidelines.
Despite playing in Chelsea's last two games, Bridge believes he is
still the second-choice left back behind Ashley Cole. Bridge is
flattered by Liverpool's interest, although Anfield chief executive
Rick Parry has yet to make formal contact with Peter Kenyon over
his possible transfer.
Bridge, widely considered to be Chelsea's best left back last
season, signed a new long-term contract in July, but he continues
to be frustrated by his lack of opportunities. Despite a change of
management, Bridge remains behind Cole in the Chelsea pecking order
and he is tempted by the prospect of joining Liverpool.
Chelsea are already beginning to make changes to their squad and
yesterday they agreed a £4million fee with Lokomotiv Moscow for
central defender Branislav Ivanovic. The Serb, who plays alongside
Manchester United's Nemanja Vidic for his country, is expected to
sign for Chelsea ahead of their FA Cup third-round tie against
Queens Park Rangers.
