Rafael Benitez wants Gareth Barry at Liverpool

By Telegraph staff
Last Updated: 9:35am BST 15/04/2008

Rafael Benitez has identified Gareth Barry as his main transfer target for the summer.
The uncertainty surrounding the club at boardroom level has not prevented Benitez from drawing up a list of players he wants to add to the squad, should he remain in charge, with Barry a priority.
Benitez's interest in the England midfield player is longstanding and reports suggest Hicks and Benitez have discussed a possible £12 million transfer already with Villa officials. Parry was not party to those discussions.
Barry, 27, has established himself as a mainstay of the England squad over the last season since moving to a more central, holding role under Martin O'Neill.
England manager Fabio Capello has spoken of his admiration for the technical qualities of the player and, though Liverpool appear well stocked with central midfielders, his addition would give depth to Liverpool's squad in an important area.
Under the shadow of political manoeuvring at the club, Benitez's willingness to discuss squad building and forward planning suggests he feels, as he has often publically stated, he is at the club for the long-term.