Liverpool reject Gerrard deman from Real Madrid

Liverpool have rejected Real Madrid's offer to sell Morientes to Anfield on the proviso that Madrid have first option on Steven Gerrard if he decides to leave the club.

In an unusual twist to yesterday's bid by Liverpool to buy striker Morientes, Real Madrid have offered a deal that would be risky for the Anfield board to accept. Liverpool captain Gerrard has made it clear in the past that he would want out of Merseyside if the club doesn't win any silverware in the next 12 months.

Real President Florentino Perez yesterday slapped a £7.5 million price tag on Morientes who is keen to move to Liverpool in the January transfer window.

However, later Real made it known they are willing to sell the Spanish striker on the condition they have first say on Gerrard which will not be viewed favourably with Liverpool fans.