Houllier issues hands-off warning to Real Madrid

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Gerard Houllier has issued a hands-off warning to Real Madrid following speculation in today's papers that they are considering stepping-up their interest in Michael Owen.

Real to step-up Owen interest?

Today's reports originate following comments made by Real Madrid's president Florentino Pérez. It is claimed that the Spanish outfit are considering dumping Raul due to a row over image rights. Pérez is quoted as saying that he is prepared to kick Raul out and replace him with Owen. Pérez has signed every big name player he has ever wanted and that has to be a concern for every Red.

Just over a week ago the Insider @ www.koptalk.tv heard that a Spanish club were planning to hold secret new year talks with the Owen camp so this backs-up what we're starting to hear.

Houllier is naturally playing down the speculation in the hope that it will cool but with the cloud hanging over Melwood at the moment (see the latest Insider update which went online earlier today), every supporter should be concerned with Pérez's comments.

"Michael is Liverpool through and through and he is going nowhere," said the boss today.

"My message to anyone wanting to try and bid for him would be to forget it."

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