Liverpool agreed a fee with Roma for Alberto Aquilani yesterday. The fee for the Italian midfielder is reported to be around £20m although this is not confirmed.
After the sale of Xabi Alonso to Real Madrid was finally concluded, the reds were given permission to discuss personal terms with the 25 year old Italian international. But the deal is still subject to a medical which is expected to take place at Melwood in the coming days.
Albert Aquilani has been out with an injury to his right ankle since March, which he had to undergo an operation on in May.
But reds boss Rafa Benitez believes that the Italian should excite the Liverpool fans.
“Roma have allowed us to talk with him, so that’s good and positive. He is a player with the quality we are looking for.
He can play a little bit higher than Javier Mascherano – maybe between him and Steven Gerrard.
He has good passing – the final ball is good – and he also works. If he can settle down properly in England he can be a very good addition.
I think the signing should excite the fans. He won the U19 European Championship with his country, and U21 too. He has some trophies – including the Italian Cup.
I always remember one game – England versus Italy U21s at Wembley, and he was man of the match in a 3-0 win.”