Morientes announces he'd like to join reds in New Year

From the BBC Sport website.

Morientes targets Liverpool move

Morientes seems to be frustrated at Real Madrid

Fernando Morientes has put Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez on red alert by saying he would consider a move to Anfield in the January transfer window.

Benitez is believed to have wanted Real Madrid's Morientes as part of the deal which saw Michael Owen move to Spain.

"The return to form of Owen can be excellent for Real, but it is also a new problem for me," said 28-year-old Spanish international Morientes.

He added: "Liverpool could be a great option for January."

Morientes appears to be growing increasingly frustrated at the lack of first team opportunities at Real where he seems to be behind Raul, Ronaldo and Owen in the pecking order.

"My situation at Real is not pleasant," he said. "If things continue like this I will have to think about leaving. I am tired of sitting on the bench.

"Liverpool is a club where any player would be happy to play. It is a club with a history of having great supporters, a good coach and now Spanish players."

Benitez has been encouraged by the comments of Morientes.

He said: "It was good to hear, because when a good player talks about a good club, it is good for us."