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XABI ALONSO looks set to board Liverpool’s flight to Oslo today with his Anfield future still in limbo.

Despite edging nearer to a move to Real Madrid, Alonso is nevertheless scheduled to travel with the squad ahead of tomorrow’s friendly with FC Lyn in Norway.

With Liverpool’s players given the day off, the Spaniard joined compatriot Albert Riera and Pepe Reina in staying on in Barcelona after Sunday’s pre-season defeat against Espanyol.

Anfield officials met with Real executive director-general Jose Angel Sanchez before the match in an effort to resolve the long-running transfer saga.

And it seems Benitez will win his battle of wits with the Spanish giants, as Bernabeu sources suggest Real are prepared to pay £30million plus an extra £2m, depending on Alonso’s progress during the first two years of his contract.

No bid has yet been made, but Liverpool managing director Christian Purslow has been told Real’s intimated opening offer will be raised.

“This (meeting) has only served to put our positions on the table,” said Purslow. “We need to continue talking.

“Rafa arranged this knowing what was coming. It was important that we know. So far, most of what is being said is a lie. We were negotiating through the press. It makes no sense.

“Now, I have been impressed by Madrid and Jose Angel. They are friends and will remain so.”