Rafa ready to ring the changes

Reds boss looking for swift swoop into transfer market

By Chris Burton   Last updated: 12th May 2008

Rafa ready to ring the changes

Benitez: Has identified targets

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Rafa Benitez is hoping to start his summer rebuilding program at Liverpool as soon as possible.

The Reds finished 11 points behind Premier League champions Manchester United this season, and are desperate to mount a serious bid for the crown next year.

Benitez admits that alterations to the personnel at Anfield are imperative, and has already drawn up a list of targets.

However, rather than wait for the transfer market to begin in earnest over the summer, the Spaniard is keen to get the process in motion immediately.

"We are working hard to improve the squad," Benitez said.

"Throughout the whole season, we are watching players and trying to sign the players we need.

"We want to sign the best players as soon as possible and I think we will get investment from the owners, so we can go forward."

Positives

Benitez already has the foundations of a title-chasing team in place, but needs to complement his big-game players with more world-class talent.

Fernando Torres has been a revelation during his first season in England, while Jose Reina continues to provide a solid last line of defence.

Jamie Carragher, Steven Gerrard and Javier Mascherano are all proven at the highest level, but silverware continues to elude the Reds.

"We did not win silverware but you talk about 119 goals, the goalkeeper has won the Golden Gloves Award again for the third time in a row," said Benitez.

"And with Torres, he was terrific at scoring and 76 points is a good total for us. There are a lot of positive things from this season, but the most important thing is we did not win a trophy."