Cup finalist linked with Reds

The right sided midfielder had impressed Rafael Benitez during his three years in Spain with Racing Santander and the way he has adapted to the demands of the Premiership this season has also impressed the Liverpool manager.

Sources close to Benayoun say the Israeli was sounded out about a move to the Reds before Saturday's game and his performance in the FA Cup final will have further impressed Benitez and his staff.

West Ham will want to keep Benayoun as they compete in next season's UEFA Cup final and are likely to slap a £6m fee on the Israeli playmaker's head.