Dad spearheading Liverpool striker Owen's Real Madrid move

The Dad of Liverpool striker Michael Owen is leading negotiations with Real Madrid over a deal for his son.

Terry Owen, with the striker's agent, Tony Stephens, has stressed to Real his son's desire to join them - although that has somewhat handed the initiative to the Spanish who are in less of a hurry to sign him than he is to leave, says the Independent.

Liverpool are keen to wrap up a deal today and may be forced to lower their cash demands to fit into their deadline. The fee is now expected to be a cash deal of between £8 and £9 million, with midfielder Carlos Nunez also moving in part-exchange.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez is said to have made it plain that he wants the player to go after contract talks broke down.