Liverpool, Chelsea chasing Real Madrid's Xabi Alonso?

Liverpool are hoping to re-sign Xabi Alonso from Real Madrid this summer but face a battle to land the Spaniard with Chelsea also interested, according to reports.

Alonso's current deal at the Santiago Bernabeu runs out in 12 months and it is believed that Real are willing to cash in rather than lose him on a free transfer.

Jose Mourinho, who left Madrid to return to Chelsea this summer, is an admirer of Alonso and is keen to reunite with him at Stamford Bridge, particularly with the Blues' midfield needing reinforcements.

Liverpool manager Brendan Rodgers is hoping to use Alonso's connection to Anfield as a negotiation tactic, but it has been reported that there may be a problem convincing the club to match the £10m fee that Real are holding out for.

Alonso joined the Spanish giants from Liverpool in 2009.