Spartak Moscow eye move for Riera

Spartak Moscow are ready to make Liverpool an offer to sign Albert Riera on loan - after their rivals CSKA ruled out a move for the winger.

It has been reported that Riera was on the verge of joining CSKA in a £6m deal.

However, CSKA have issued an abrupt statement to the contrary and made it quite clear they will not be doing any significant transfer business before the Russian window closes on April 8.

"We know that the CSKA brand is very attractive for any player who is searching for a new challenge but Albert Riera is not in our plans," the club said last night.

"It has come as a surprise to us that we are interested in this player."

But sources in the Russian capital have revealed that Spartak are interested in taking Riera on loan until June 30 with a view to signing him permanently in the summer.

Spartak would be able to offer Riera first team football, as they have a dearth of left-sided midfielders, while to increase their appeal, they are also guaranteed a place in next season's Champions League.

Moving to Russia would also appeal on personal level - his wife, Yulia, is from Omsk in Siberia - and he told Spanish newspaper Marca that he wants the deal to go through.

"This proposition seems very attractive to me," Riera said. "Firstly because it is the only prestigious league in Europe that can buy players.

"Secondly, I could have regular first team football and that would help me secure a ticket to the World Cup finals."

Liverpool officials confirmed today that contact has been made between them and the Russian and discussions are ongoing but the chances of moving happening in the next 48 hours are slim.

Aside from the clubs having to agree a suitable arrangement, Riera would also have to agree personal terms before his departure is rubberstamped.

Meanwhile, David Ngog believes he has blossomed into a more complete striker this season and the young Frenchman feels he is learning to cope with the physical aspects of the Premier League.

"The more experience you have of playing like that the more confident you become," said Ngog "I think I'm becoming a better player and know I need to do that.

"If I can I will be happy. I've managed to score some goals which is pleasing. But that's what people expect of strikers, it's our job. Hopefully I can get more in the future."

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