Liverpool's Rafa to bid for Spanish striker David Villa

London, Aug.1 (ANI): Liverpool FC manager Rafa Benitez will use the money from the Xabi Alonso deal to bid for Spain striker David Villa.

According to The Sun, midfielder Alonso is expected to seal a 30-million-pound move to Real Madrid today - and Liverpool boss Benitez aims to pair Villa with current Kop front man Fernando Torres in the double act that has been so deadly for the Euro 2008 champions.

Anfield skipper Steven Gerrard would move back into central midfield, alongside Javier Mascherano, with Benitez changing his formation to 4-4-1-1.

Villa, 26, has already turned down moves to Real and Barcelona this summer but Liverpool feel Torres can persuade his pal to leave Valencia for England.

Benitez, however, recognises potential difficulties in nabbing Villa and does have a Plan B.

Roma midfielder Alberto Aquilani, 24, is seen as a possible replacement for Alonso, 27, who asked for a transfer to force through his move. (ANI)