D-Day looms in Bellamy raceJun 16 2006
By Chris Bascombe
LIVERPOOL target Craig Bellamy will discover if his dream move to Anfield will go ahead within the next two weeks. The Blackburn striker has a £6m get-out clause in his contract, but that expires at the end of this month.
If Liverpool don't activate the clause within the next fortnight, they'll be unable to secure the Welshman's services for the same cut-price fee.
Bellamy has emerged as the most likely striking target for manager Rafa Benitez due to the postponement of Djibril Cisse's £8m transfer.
Had Cisse been sold, Benitez was ready to use the funds for a swoop for Charlton's Darren Bent.
However, the Spanish boss recognises Bellamy would represent top value for £6m, although there are still significant discussions ongoing at Anfield to determine the pros and cons of a Bellamy bid.
The fiery Welshman certainly possesses all the attributes Liverpool are seeking, but the meticulous Benitez wants to be sure the player's off-field reputation has been exaggerated.
The clock is ticking though, and now Benitez is considering whether to test the validity of the £6m get-out clause claims which have been widely reported by making a formal bid.
Liverpool will be helped by the fact Bellamy is desperate to join the Reds and has even indicated to friends he'd take a pay-cut to move to Merseyside.
If Liverpool make a move, it's understood Bellamy would demand his sale."
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