Liverpool in talks with agents of Real Madrid's Owen

Liverpool are racing to sign Real Madrid ace Michael Owen before the Champions League transfer deadline falls.
 
The Guardian says Owen's representatives are holding talks with Liverpool with the blessing of Real, but are aware that there is a significant difference between Real's asking price and what Liverpool are prepared to pay. Certainly, neither club wishes to make a loss on the £8m deal that took Owen to the Bernabéu a year ago.

Last night Real insisted they have yet to receive a formal offer and warned they will not allow the England striker to depart cheaply. Until an offer is formalised Real are understood not to be directly involved in the negotiations, with Owen's agents handling the discussions but keeping officials at the Spanish club in touch with developments.

Liverpool are one of three clubs who, Real understand, are considering a formal move for Owen, with Newcastle United also "very keen" to sign him and Manchester United retaining what has been described as a "slightly lesser" interest.

Aware of Owen's determination to play Champions League football next season, Real now consider Liverpool to be his most likely destination, despite the open enthusiasm of Newcastle's manager Graeme Souness.