Sometimes you can’t let sentimentality get in the way, especially when the Premier League is up for grabs. Xabi Alonso has been an excellent servant for Liverpool, forging a strong midfield partnership with Steven Gerrard for several seasons and Reds fans will always remember that heady night in Istanbul when the pair helped secure the Champions League for the club.

However, Sky Sports report that the writing may now be on the wall as far as the Spaniard’s Anfield career is concerned. It had been thought that Alonso might stick around, despite Gareth Barry almost certainly moving to Merseyside this summer. However, the tune has almost certainly changed, with the midfielder making overtures in the direction of Turin.

“I’ve spent four fantastic years at Liverpool, but I have to admit that I have always been fascinated by Italian football.

“However, it’s too soon to talk about the future. In short - we’ll see.

Alonso added: “Juve are one of the biggest teams in Europe, perhaps the biggest in Italy. They have many fans, not only in Italy, but all over the world.

“They’re a team who want to get back to winning the Scudetto and who also want to compete in the Champions League.”

If the above isn’t a ‘come-and-get-me-plea’, I’m not sure what is. It’s looking increasinly likely that Alonso is going to be surplus to requirements next season, will he be sold against the wishes of many Liverpool supporters?