Real Madrid reject second Liverpool bid for Morientes

Liverpool have had an improved bid for Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes turned down.

Morientes has declared he wants a move to Anfield and Liverpool made a £6 million offer yesterday, up from their original £3.5 million bid.

However, Real refused the offer informing Liverpool officials it still fell short of their £8 million valuation.

Madrid general manager Arrigo Sacchi has instructed his directors that he is prepared to accept Liverpool's offer - if they include first refusal on captain Steven Gerrard.

Morientes has already rejected an approach from Newcastle as he has his heart set on playing for Rafa Benitez at Liverpool. But the English giants are reluctant to grant Real first option on Gerrard, with Sacchi already ready to bid for the England international at the end of the season.