Signings Jinx Strikes Distribution: world Keywords: world

Liverpool Echo, 18 May 2005 Jinx strikes Reds target By Chris Bascombe, Liverpool Echo

LIVERPOOL's injury jinx has struck again, forcing Rafa Benitez into a major dilemma with one of his prime summer targets.

Benitez was on the verge of capturing Albacete winger Mark Gonzalez until the Chilean damaged cruciate ligaments last week.

He's been ruled out for six months. The Reds had reached an advanced stage in negotiations for the pacey 20-year-old, but are now considering whether to press ahead with the signing.

A further complication surrounds Liverpool's chances of being granted a work permit for the South American.

If he signed while injured, he wouldn't be able to fulfil the required criteria needed to satisfy the department of education and employment.

Chile's position as one of football's minnows - they're rated outside the world's top 70 nations - would also be a factor in any application.

However, Benitez still hasn't completely ruled out the possibility of sanctioning the deal, although he may now have no choice but to delay it until January.

Gonzalez suffered the blow against Levante in a La Liga match on May 10, wrecking his immediate hopes of a dream move and frustrating Benitez.

Benitez has an extensive list of targets, but much of his recruitment depends on sales.

Real Zaragoza's £6mrated Argentinian centre-half Gabriel Milito, 24, and Feyenoord striker Dirk Kuyt also top Benitez's priority list, demonstrating the manager's view a centre-half and more forward power is required.

Kuyt, also 24, was the alternative target to Fernando Morientes last January, but at £10m is currently beyond Liverpool's valuation.

Goalkeeper Jose Reina will sign from Villarreal for £6m this summer.

Benitez wants two wingers and another centre-midfielder when an extensive rebuilding programme gets underway, regardless of the outcome of the Champions League Final.