Liverpool new boy Xabi Alonso believes boss Rafael Benitez is a “master of psychology” who can lead the Reds to Premiership glory.

The Spain midfielder will complete his £10.5million move from Real Sociedad this week. And the 22-year-old revealed how he watched in awe as Benitez inspired Valencia to the La Liga title last season.

Alonso said: “Not only is Benitez a great coach, he is a master of psychology. I believe under Benitez our work will be excellent. I am convinced that this season the Reds can be considered to win the championship.” (Daily Mirror)

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Kevin Keegan is ready to snap up Marcel Desailly – as Nicolas Anelka heads for the Manchester City exit door, report The Sun.

It is claimed City boss Keegan is ready to offer a one-year deal to Desailly, who is still looking for a club after being released by Chelsea.

But Keegan looks to have lost his bid to keep controversial striker Anelka, with Didier Deschamps reportedly in talks to sign his former France team-mate for Monaco.

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Alan Curbishley is reportedly ready to meet Nottingham Forest’s £5million asking price for Andy Reid. (Express, Sun)

The Charlton boss is considering taking a gamble on the Republic of Ireland midfielder before the transfer deadline.

Reid is desperate to secure a dream move to the Premiership but Forest insist he will not go for less than £5million.

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Jose Antonio Reyes reckons he is not yet good enough to be considered one of Arsenal’s Galacticos.

Reyes, a £20million signing from Seville, was magnificent in the Community Shield win over Manchester United and in Sunday’s demolition of Everton.

But the 20-year-old said: “I do not think I am a ‘Galactico’. For me, I think the hard thing is not to start well but to keep this high level all season.” (Daily Mirror)

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Juninho’s proposed move from Middlesbrough to Celtic appears to be back on after his father and agent, Osvaldo, arrived yesterday to finalise his switch to Parkhead. (Daily Express)

The deal appeared to be in jeopardy following protracted talks between Celtic manager Martin O’Neill and the Brazilian.

However, all that has changed in the last 24 hours and Juninho could be on his way out on a free transfer.