Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has played down suggestions that he
is contemplating a move for Real Madrid striker Ruud van
Nistelrooy.
The Reds boss has been linked with the Dutchman as an
attacking alternative to Fernando Torres to ease season-long injury
problems.
Van Nistelrooy is out of favour in Spain's capital and has a
point to prove to the management team of Holland ahead of this
summer's World Cup finals having overcome his own fitness
nightmares.
But Benitez claims discussions regarding the former
Manchester United star are not taking place amid reports that wages
in the region of £120,000-a-week are a stumbling block.
He told Liverpool's official website: "We are not talking
about players but we are not trying so it will be very difficult."
Benitez is understood to be in the final stages of meetings
regarding Atletico Madrid winger Maxi Rodriguez, while Greece
international full-back Vasil Torosidis has been rumoured to be a
target.
Liverpool have struggled horribly this season when a thin
squad has been exposed by injuries and their Spanish manager
confesses plans to reinforce are taking place.
Benitez added: "We are working hard. We have had some good
conversations with some of them but my concern now is to have good
conversation with my players."
