Real Madrid are now happy to sell Asier Illarramendi, according to Spanish newspaper AS on Friday. More than that, AS also say that Real Madrid are actively seeking a buyer for the midfielder as they look to bring in a replacement such as William Carvalho from Sporting.
Handily for Real Madrid they already have an offer on the table from Liverpool. Another Spanish newspaper Marca reported a couple of weeks ago that Liverpool had submitted an offer but at the time they said Illarramendi was an important part of Rafa Benitez's plans.
Either things have changed over the past few pre-season games or the two newspapers disagree strongly on what the situation is. It could be that AS are highlighting possible exits for Illarramendi and Lucas Silva, the latter on loan, to give them a chance to speculate about replacements.
It's impossible to know which side of the coin is correct but Liverpool may have a little hope coming their way if the Anfield wish to sign Illarramendi still exists. The defensive midfielder would be a good addition to the Liverpool squad and he's been dubbed the next Xabi Alonso because of his Basque background, Liverpool could certainly do with a new Alonso!