LIVERPOOL have been linked with a surprise move for Real Madrid captain Raul.

The 32-year-old has fallen out of favour at the Bernabeu this season, making just nine starts in 29 league games under manager Manuel Pellegrini.

After more than 700 appearances for the Spanish club, Raul’s sudden fall from grace has alerted a number of clubs to his possible availability this summer.

Reports from Spain claim Liverpool are set to offer the forward a two-year contract, although the source of these reports is said to be in the Barcelona based Catalan press and not Madrid.

A Real legend, Raul has maintained a dignified silence about his treatment this season but is thought to be open to offers from the Premier League should his time at the Bernabeu be up.

There is also interest from the United States and Middle East in offering the player a lucrative deal at the end of what has been a prolific career for club and country.

Since joining Real from city neighbours Atletico Madrid as a youth player, Raul has gone on to become the club’s leading scorer,breaking Alfredo di Stefano’s longstanding record last season.

He has also scored more Champions League goals than any other player and is Spain’s record goalscorer.

This is not the first time Raul has been linked with a move to Anfield.

Speculation was rife five years ago that he was set to join his friend and former Real strike partner, Fernando Morientes, at Liverpool.

It is not clear what, if any, transfer fee Raul would command.