Real Madrid's Guti in mix for Liverpool ace Owen

Real Madrid may offer Jose Maria Guti to Liverpool in part-exchange for striker Michael Owen.

Liverpool are prepared to accept a £10 million fee plus a player for the England international.

Reds boss Rafa Benitez would prefer either Fernando Morientes or Mallorca's Samuel Eto'o, but both players are reluctant to move to Anfield.

Guti, whose position at Real is under threat due to the imminent arrival of Arsenal's Patrick Vieira, represents the ideal alternative for Benitez.

The Spanish international can play in midfield and attack, offering the sort of versatility Benitez is craving after being handed limited funds for his summer transfer plans.

While the trail had appeared to have gone quiet this summer, Real president Florentino Perez has been following Owen's contract talks with Liverpool since January.

Real already have a detailed marketing plan drawn up for the popular England star - who like David Beckham has a big following across the Far East.

Serious negotiations will be held next Thursday, once both clubs' Champions League qualifiers are out of the way.