Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry has move to end speculation suggesting manager Rafael Benitez is a target for Real Madrid.

According to reports, Real were lining up Benitez, a former youth coach at the Bernabeu, as a replacement for Wanderley Luxemburgo. But Parry claims that the former Valencia coach will be staying at Anfield.

“We are extremely happy with Benitez and want him to stay,” Parry told the club’s official website.

“There is a great opportunity for Rafa to fulfil his burning ambitions here.

“Bringing trophies back to Anfield is all we are concerned with.

“Without underestimating the size of the challenge, we are very confident we can achieve that aim together.

“The club and Rafa are working on a shared vision of sustained success on the pitch.”

Real have lost three games in a row – two in their domestic league and one in the Champions League – and lie in 15th place in the Primera Liga, which has prompted rumours about Luxemburgo’s position at the club.