Morientes deal almost done

Last updated : 30 December 2004 By Adam Bryant

"The main reason is coach Rafa Benitez - he is Spanish and knows me perfectly which is worth a lot," confirmed the Real Madrid striker.

"I don't want to expand except to say I am already looking through the English dictionary."

Madrid now need to agree a fee for the player according to his agent, Gines Carvajal.

"Everything depends on Real Madrid - I haven't seen anything in writing from Liverpool," he revealed.

"I know they spoke with Madrid and the initial amount did not satisfy the president.

"But within the right price frame the feelings of the player will be a priority - that is important."