Post by vinayahuja on Nov 30, 2006 13:39:54 GMT -1
Liverpool and Barcelona are ready to do battle for Lucas Neill after Blackburn admitted they will sell the defender, according to the Daily Mirror.
Rovers manager Mark Hughes is desperate to keep the Australian international at Ewood Park but chairman John Williams has admitted for the first time that they are ready to do business with Neill's contract running out next summer.
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is a big admirer of the full-back but will face competition from European champions Barcelona for his signature.
Williams said: "Lucas has said he would like to look at fresh challenges. The decision is between us and him about whether he leaves in January or at the end of the season.
"It all depends on whether the offer is right for the club and whether Lucas wants to leave in January.
"We will do what is best for the team."
Hughes had hoped a good UEFA Cup run would persuade the 28 year-old former Millwall man to stay at the club but it now appears his future lies elsewhere.
Rovers manager Mark Hughes is desperate to keep the Australian international at Ewood Park but chairman John Williams has admitted for the first time that they are ready to do business with Neill's contract running out next summer.
Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is a big admirer of the full-back but will face competition from European champions Barcelona for his signature.
Williams said: "Lucas has said he would like to look at fresh challenges. The decision is between us and him about whether he leaves in January or at the end of the season.
"It all depends on whether the offer is right for the club and whether Lucas wants to leave in January.
"We will do what is best for the team."
Hughes had hoped a good UEFA Cup run would persuade the 28 year-old former Millwall man to stay at the club but it now appears his future lies elsewhere.