Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has successfully added Ryan Babel and Yossi Benayoun to his squad this week, and there is at least one more new signing still to come. Details of who that is are thin on the ground, but is was co-owner Tom Hicks who hinted at it during an interview earlier this week, suggesting this isn’t a minor signing. The move to try and sign Argentina’s Gabriel Heinze is still on, although the difficulties surrounding a direct move from Manchester United aren’t going to be all that easy to overcome.
Also due to happen soon is a very important signing – one of an existing player. Steve Finnan was linked with a move away from Anfield when Rafa first arrived, but after staying on he became on of the unsung heroes of Rafa’s time in charge. He’s earned a new contract, and has been reportedly offered one for two years, with an option for a third year, which would see Finnan a Red until he’s 34.
A press conference is likely to take place this afternoon to unveil Babel and Benayoun. Benayoun has already signed his four year deal, Babel will sign his five-year deal later today – a lucrative deal for the player. According to reports, Babel was entitled to 50% of any amount over €9m received by Ajax for him, and the fee is said to be €17m, which is around £11.5m.
Babel explained last night how he was feeling sad to be saying his farewells at his old club: “I am at Ajax to say goodbye to everyone, and I must say that’s quite difficult. I think I will miss the fans, the ones that have always supported me, the guys of course and the coach. I certainly leave Ajax with pain in my heart.”