Benítez sets sights on David Villa

Liverpool manager Rafael Benítez has revealed his interest in Spain striker David Villa, but admits that it might be difficult to attract the player.

Villa, top scorer at the recent European Championships, plays his club football for Valencia and recently confirmed that he plans to stay “as long as he can”.

Benítez will need to find a replacement for Peter Crouch, who is about to sign a deal with Portsmouth.

“In attack, we have Fernando Torres, Andrei Voronin, Dirk Kuyt and Ryan Babel. Steven Gerrard can act as second striker, but nevertheless we are looking for another forward. Villa’s name is on our list, but his arrival is difficult,” said the former Valencia manager.

Villa managed to become club top scorer in all of the three seasons he spent at ‘los Ches’.