Pompey step up bid to sign Peter Crouch

Jul 2 2008 by Chris Beesley, Liverpool Daily Post

Whether Kanu stays or not, the England international remains Redknapp’s number one striking target ahead of the club’s first ever European campaign.

In terms of physical stature and playing style, Crouch, who netted 19 goals in 39 games for Portsmouth between 2001-02 – the most prolific spell of his career – would be an ideal replacement for Kanu.

The 27-year-old, who has been linked to several other Premier League clubs including Arsenal, Aston Villa, Manchester City, Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur with Benitez eager to acquire Robbie Keane in a swap deal, is believed to favour a move to Fratton Park, not just because of the success he enjoyed there previously but also because he has a good working relationship with Redknapp.

The pair were together at Hampshire rivals Southampton back in 2004-05 when despite suffering relegation from the Premier League Crouch netted 16 goals, earning an England call-up and £7million move to Champions League winners Liverpool.

Anfield officials could wait until European champion Xabi Alonso returns from holiday before they can sort out the Spanish midfielder’s future.

Alonso has been given a three-week break following Spain’s successful Euro 2008 campaign, with his proposed £16m move to Juventus seemingly on hold.

The player admits to having “no idea” where he will be playing next season.

Meanwhile, Liverpool reserve Paul Anderson has signed a new contract which extends his deal at the club until 2011.

The 19-year-old winger will spend this season, to loan Anderson to Nottingham Forest.