Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has revealed that Real Madrid asked about the availability of captain Steven Gerrard and admitted he would not stand in the midfielder’s way, if he asked to leave Anfield.
Gerrard has been in inspirational form in what has been a disappointing campaign for Liverpool. However, there has been speculation that he is growing increasingly frustrated with life at the club and may be looking to leave Anfield at the end of the season.
Chelsea have been linked with a move for the England international, but they could face competition from Madrid.
“Steve is above money,” Parry told Radio Five Live. “He is the future of Liverpool.
“It doesn’t matter if it’s £30 million, £40 million or £50 million, we will not accept offers.”
But Parry conceded that they may be unable to prevent Gerrard leaving.
“Our position is we want Steven to stay, but we are also realistic enough and have enough respect for Steven – and he has enough respect for us – to know that it is his decision that will be crucial,” added Parry.
“You are not going to keep a player like Steven against his will. That just doesn’t work, but any idea we are going to accept offers for Steven and then tell him ‘by the way, we’ve decided to sell you’ is not on the agenda. You can forget that.”
