Riera back on Reds radar

Renewed interest in Spaniard

Last updated: 19th August 2008

albert riera

Riera: Reds target?

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Albert Riera could be on his way back to the Premier League, skysports.com understands, and Liverpool remain favourites to claim his signature.

The 26-year-old has previous experience of playing in England with Manchester City after he spent the latter part of the 2006 season at Eastlands.

Riera impressed with City but he returned to Espanyol where he has flourished ever since.

He has since gone on to become a full Spanish international and has attracted interest from a number of clubs, although Liverpool have been leading the chase all summer and remain very interested.

Former Spanish boss, Luis Aragones, now in charge at Fenerbahce, is trying to lure him to Turkey - but England remains his most likely destination.

Riera demanded a transfer earlier in the summer and, although he has since settled his differences with the Barcelona-based club, a move back to the Premier League is still a big attraction.

His possible arrival at Anfield would solve Rafa Benitez's left-sided midfield problem, although they are not the only English side interested.

However, Riera has made no secret of his desire to link up with Benitez and should they make a renewed bid - as expected - then they would be firm favourites to tie up the deal.

A move for Riera could also finally see Benitez call-off his long-winded pursuit of Aston Villa's Gareth Barry.