Reina in claim over Anfield move

Reina has been called up by Spain

Villarreal goalkeeper Pepe Reina claims he is on the verge of joining new European champions Liverpool.

The ex-Barcelona shot-stopper, 22, says the clubs have not reached agreement over a transfer fee but he expects the deal to go through soon.

Reina said: "It's not done yet, but I can't deny that I'm very close to signing for Liverpool.

"It hurts a lot to leave my home but this is a good opportunity for me in sporting and financial terms."

He added: "If the deal is finally closed I hope people will understand my decision. It had to be something very big for me to leave Villarreal."

Reina has just been called up by Spain for the first time ahead of their World Cup qualifiers against Lithuania and Bosnia-Herzegovina.