Reina Yesterday, Xabi Alonso Signs Today

Whatever about the transfer situation, Rafa Benitez and Rick Parry are locking down contracts goodo this week.

First there was Jamie Carragher and Steven Gerrard, each penning four year contract extensions; Pepe Reina signed on yesterday until 2012 and Sky Sports News this morning reports that Xabi Alonso has put pen to paper on a five year contract extension, great news for the team I think.

There had been rumour that Xabi was heading away this summer with Barcelona a reported new home but I think the new five year deal should see him at the club for at least the next two seasons anyway.

Others are doubtful but I still strongly feel that Xabi Alonso is an absolute quality midfielder who is core to the future success of the Liverpool midfield line and I’m expecting great things from him this coming season.

Speaking to Sky…

I have been here for three seasons now and have such special feelings for the club and the supporters. I understand what Liverpool FC means to so many people. It is such a special club and I just didn’t want to leave.

“We agreed that the talks would take place after the Champions League final and, to be honest, in the end it was a simple decision for me because I could see right away that the attitude of the club towards me was spot on.

There was word during the week that Momo Sissoko would follow Alonso in contract talks but that remains up in the air. A loan move might not be too bad an option for Sissoko though his sale could still generate much-needed transfer funds (hell, every little helps in getting bigger names this summer) but I can’t imagine Liverpool landing him with a new contract just yet.

So, now with four of the biggest names at the club under new deals can we expect to start seeing some transfer moving and shaking done? Let the gates of Anfield open….

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