Owen deal done as Vieira stalls
Michael Owen seems set for Real Madrid, while Patrick Vieira's proposed move has stalled.
Real Madrid are reported to have agreed a deal to sign Liverpool striker Michael Owen, while Patrick Vieira's proposed move to the Spanish capital has stalled.Spanish sources claim that Real have all but tied up a deal for England international Michael Owen after talks between all parties.
It is thought that Real have agreed a fee of ‚é¼12 million (£8 million) plus one or possibly two players from the Spanish giants in exchange.
Midfield duo Juanfran and Antonio Nunez are thought to be the players in question that could move to Anfield in the opposite direction.
Liverpool could receive additional payments for Owen depending on Real's success in the future.
Highly-respected Spanish newspaper AS claims that Owen could be presented as early as Friday or Saturday by Real.
News of Owen's possible move to Real emerged on Tuesday after talks over a new deal with Liverpool broke down.
The speculation intensified after he was an unused substitute in the club's UEFA Champions League qualifier with Grazer AK as Liverpool did not want to have him cup-tied fearing it would seriously reduce his price-tag.
It appears that Liverpool have now conceded defeat in keeping Owen at Anfield and despite the relatively low fee Madrid have offered they accepted rather than risk losing him for nothing next summer when his contract expires.
Owen will join up with England team-mate David Beckham at El Santiago Bernabeu, but it appears they will not be joined by Vieira.
Real's attempts to bring the Frenchman to the Spanish capital appear to have floundered over Arsenal hiking up the price for the player and Vieira's wage demands.
Vieira is believed to be seeking personal terms similar to the other top stars at Real, while the club are not willing to meet his demands.
The Gunners skipper has been Real's top summer target, but now it looks as if they are losing patience and that Vieira will remain with Arsenal.
Reports indicate that Vieira may even sign a new deal at Highbury, while Real could try and hijack Liverpool's bid for Xabi Alonso as they search for an alternative to the Frenchman.
