Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is adamant Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso will remain at Anfield.
Reds boss planning summer transfer activity
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is adamant Javier Mascherano and Xabi Alonso will remain at Anfield.
The midfield pair have been the subject of transfer speculation in recent days, with Juventus reported to be ready to rekindle their interest in Alonso and Mascherano refusing to rule out a move away in the future.
Benitez is keen to keep the duo and he insists both players are happy at Liverpool.
"I was talking with Javier this morning for 15 minutes about the comments in the press," said Benitez.
"He said 'I cannot stop top sides asking about me, or talking with my agent.' He is really pleased and happy to be here. He knows he is at a massive club.
Idol
"He is an idol for the fans and a key player for me so I think everything is okay.
"It is the same situation with Xabi - we want to keep the key players. That is something we are very clear on."
Benitez also revealed he was preparing his summer transfer plans after discussing his budget with the club's American owners.
"I think you have to prepare from the beginning, so it is not just now," added Benitez.
"We are working hard monitoring players, but we will not give any names.
"We have been talking and we are working together with the figures we have."
