Bonera may resolve centre-back search
Aug 31 2005
By Ian Doyle, Daily Post Staff
RAFAEL BENITEZ has turned to Parma centre-back Daniele Bonera as he faces a race against time to bolster Liverpool's defensive options.
The Anfield manager was locked in discussions with chief executive Rick Parry yesterday concerning possible targets, with the transfer window closing at midnight.
And 24-year-old Bonera has emerged as the latest name to be linked with a move after Parma revealed the European Cup holders' interest in the £5million-rated Italian international.
"The club's shareholders have told me not to sell Bonera, but Liverpool continue to raise their offer and are very interested," said Parma's sporting director Oreste Cinquini.
"If they reach a certain level I will have to contact the club's board against and reconsider our plans."
Lorenzo Sanz, the former Real Madrid president, bought the club earlier this month after it faced financial ruin following the collapse of owners Parmalat.
Liverpool face competition from Inter Milan and another Serie A side for Bonera.
Benitez is also hopeful of attracting a right-sided midfielder to Anfield, with Nolberto Solano available for £1.5m from Aston Villa.
Meanwhile, Liverpool yesterday confirmed the signing of 17-year-old Austrian winger Besian Idrizaj and Welsh under-21 striker Ramon Calliste.
Idrizaj, Austria's current young player of the year, has signed a two-year deal from Linzer ASK.
Striker Calliste, 19, has signed a one-year deal after being released by Manchester United at the end of last season.
