Real Madrid surprised by desire of Liverpool striker Owen to leave

Liverpool striker Michael Owen is enthusiastic about a move to Real Madrid.

A Real insider told the Independent that club's directors were surprised with his desire to leave Liverpool.

While Owen was one of the major influences in Liverpool appointing manager Rafa Benitez over the summer, its emerged that the England striker has found the Spaniard far too abrasive for his liking.

Benitez has already shifted out 12 players from previous manager Gerard Houllier's squad.