Liverpool have moved to quash rumours that an agreement has been reached with Real Madrid for Xabi Alonso after the Spanish midfielder was left out of the side that drew 1-1 with Thailand at the start of the club's pre-season tour of the Far East.
The 28-year-old took part in training today at Singapore's national stadium with the club insisting his none appearance against the Thais was due to an ankle problem and not to protect him from possible injury with a move to the Spanish capital imminent.
A Liverpool spokesman said: "Xabi is with us in Singapore, and will train with the rest of the squad. He was injured ahead of the Thailand game, people can say what they like about that.
"There has been no deal agreed with anyone for his transfer to anyone."
Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez has remained resolutely defiant in the face of ongoing speculation linking Alonso with a return to Spain this summer.
However, Liverpool's uncertain financial circumstances and Benitez's desire to rebuild to challenge Manchester United for the Premier League title have left Real confident that a bid of around £30 million would prove successful.
Alonso has made clear his desire to leave, and had hoped not to have to fly to Vienna on Sunday to meet up with the Liverpool squad ahead of the flight to the Far East.
Alonso did make the trip, and sources at Liverpool expect him to face Singapore on Sunday before the squad fly back to the UK the following day.
Alonso's departure, should it happen, would leave Benitez needing to replace him with names including Moussa Sissoko, Esteban Cambiasso, Alberto Aquilani, Javi Martine and even Real's own Wesley Sneijder having been mentioned.
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