Liverpool admit Benayoun approach

The Israel international, 27, has verbally agreed to a new five-year deal at Upton Park, but has delayed committing his future in print.

Liverpool chief executive Rick Parry said: "I can confirm we've made an approach for Benayoun, but the figures quoted are completely wrong.

"Other than that we don't want to say any more."

Some reports suggested Liverpool had already offered £1m for the Israel captain, while others understood the figure to be £3m.

West Ham are believed to have rejected the bid as they aim to tie their midfielder, who joined from Racing Santander in 2005 for £2.5m, to a £50,000-a-week deal.

Last month, it was widely reported that Benayoun had signed the new contract although his agent Ronen Katzav later revealed his player had only agreed in principle.

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