Liverpool's Gerrard unsettled by Real Madrid

The interest of Real Madrid has unsettled Liverpool captain Steven Gerrard.
 
Sources close to the England midfielder have told AS that Gerrard admitted to his Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez this week that a move to Spain is something that interests him.

Benitez is said to have asked Gerrard at training: "Do you want to stay with Liverpool?"

Which Gerrard replied: "Coach, I do hope so. But the interest of Madrid has affected me ..."

"The offer from Real Madrid is very special. It is difficult to say no to them. If I am to stay in England, I would only play for Liverpool."

Gerrard is locked in contract talks with Liverpool about an improved deal, but knows waiting for him at Real Madrid is a deal worth a staggering £8 million-a-year.

Real Madrid are monitoring his contract talks closely, if Liverpool indicate that Gerrard has refused their new offer, the Spanish giants will pounce with an opening £25 million bid.