Downing’s move to Liverpool falls through

Stewart Downing was added to an already lengthy transfer shopping list by Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez. The Spaniard hoped to sign the England winger in a bid to solve his left side problems, but any deal looks to have been put off by Middlesbrough’s reluctance to let go of their player, according to The Daily Mail.

Now Liverpool will have to concentrate on one of the other two deals which they have kept in reserve. The first being Gareth Barry. Martin O’Neill is still demanding £18 million for his midfielder and would be more than happy to keep him at the club. The other target would be Albert Riera.

Riera plays for Espanyol, but has been targeted by Liverpool and Everton as he looks set to leave the Spanish club this summer. Everton are rumoured to be closer to signing the winger, however, it is understood that he would prefer a move to Liverpool.

[Source: The Daily Mail]