Liverpool linked with Real Madrid star

Liverpool are one of a handful of Premier League clubs being linked with Real Madrid striker Gonzalo Higuain.

The Daily Mail reports that the Argentine international has rejected a contract extension at the Bernabeu, and Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is one manager monitoring the situation in Spain.

Higuain has been in fantastic form for the Galacticos, scoring 22 goals so far in this La Liga season. Two of those came last night in the 4-2 victory over Getafe, with Higuain and Cristiano Ronaldo both notching doubles for Los Merengues.

The 22-year-old began his professional career at River Plate, scoring at almost a goal every other game for the Argentine Primera División side after making his debut in 2004.

A €13 million move to Madrid followed in 2007, and the striker has since appeared over 100 times for the Spanish giants.

International recognition followed, with Higuain earning his first senior cap in 2009, and he's expected to play a pivotal role for Diego Maradona's World Cup side alongside Lionel Messi in this summer's World Cup.

Turning back to Madrid, and their inability to qualify for the quarter-finals of the Champions League could well mean a glut of new signings at the Bernabeu when the transfer window re-opens.

With Florentino Perez ready to splash the cash once again, it's apparent that Higuain isn't not ready to commit to Real with his place possibly in jeopardy.

That has put Manchester City, Arsenal and Chelsea on alert as well, but Liverpool boss Benitez is keen to strengthen his attacking options further and could see the Argentine as a perfect fit for the club.

The price could obviously prove to be a stumbling block for the Anfield outfit, and the Reds will have to let a handful of players go before making their intentions known in the summer transfer window.

This story has been reproduced from today's media. It does not necessarily represent the position of Liverpool Football Club.