Reds in Madrid striker link

Real Madrid President Florentino Perez is set to rule the roost at the Bernabeu with a summer clear as he looks to recoup some of the £250 million spent on 'Galactico' signings last summer.

Reports this week in El Mundo Deportivo and Marca report that up to nine Madrid squad members could face the axe this summer with Premier League clubs Chelsea, Manchester City, Tottenham Hotspur and Liverpool linked with possible swoops.

Perez is set to execute a strict summer exit policy at the 'White House' in an effort to raise funds for new stars.

It is understood that the influential businessman was shocked by Madrid's sixth consecutive premature Champions League after they were dumped out of the competition by French Ligue 1 side Lyon.

To rub salt into the wounds Madrid fans had hoped the club would reach the Champions League final as it is being held in the club's magnificent Bernabeu stadium.

The Premier League quartet of Chelsea, Manchester City, Spurs and Liverpool have  been linked with moves for a number of Madrid's players who are surplus to requirements under Perez.

Reports in El Mundo Deportivo suggest that Madrid legend Raul will retire at the end of the season, as could former Liverpool FC goalkeeper Jerzy Dudek.

Reds boss Rafael Benitez has been linked with a move for in-form Argentinean international Gonzalo Higuain.

The striker has been in great form for Los Merengues this campaign, and despite good performances could still lose his berth in the first XI if Bayern Munich's Franck Ribery joins moves to the Bernabeu.

Liverpool boss Benitez is a confirmed admirer of Higuain, with reports suggesting he would swoop for the player if he became available.

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