Liverpool boss wants Real Madrid's Juanfran in Owen deal

Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez wants Spanish whiz-kid Juanfran included in Real Madrid's bid for striker Michael Owen.

Benitez's first-choice was to have Fernando Morientes come to Anfield in part-exchange, but Real fielded him in last night's Champions League qualifier against Wisla Krakow, so making him Cup-tied for all European competitions.

Instead, Benitez is now expected to demand Juanfran be included in the deal - which is being valued at £20 million.

The Spanish youth international is regarded as Luis Figo's long-term successor at Real and his progress has been enough for the Madrid giants to drop all interest in Betis ace Joaquin.