Liverpool to snatch Joaquin from under noses of Real Madrid, Barcelona

Liverpool are planning to snap up Real Betis winger Joaquin from under the noses of Spanish giants Real Madrid and Barcelona.

With both La Liga rivals focused on their battle for Manchester United star David Beckham, Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier is ready to launch a quick-fire raid for the Betis youngster.

Spanish press reports suggest Houllier is willing to offer £8 million plus midfielder Didi Hamann to Betis for Joaquin.

Betis President Manuel Ruiz de Lopera said yesterday: "He has three years on his contract, but we can't keep him if someone comes in to pay his buy out clause."

Joaquin's buyout clause is £40 million, but Betis are yet to be tested with any sort of serious bid for the player.