England

Michael Owen Would Have Taken Huge Pay Cut To Rejoin Liverpool – Report

A tabloid report claims the striker was hopeful of a move back to Anfield before signing a deal at Old Trafford.

Jul 5, 2009 8:50:35 AM

Michael Owen at Parkway Hospital - Manchester United (PA)

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Michael Owen at Parkway Hospital - Manchester United (PA)

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Michael Owen

Prior to signing for Manchester United, Michael Owen was reportedly desperate to rejoin Liverpool and would have agreed to return to Anfield for as little as £25,000 a week, claims the News of the World.

The British tabloid reports that even whilst in talks with the English champions, Owen was hopeful of a move back to Merseyside, but was denied by manager Rafael Benitez.

Despite insisting he would accept a huge pay cut to return to the Reds, the striker was refused his dream move with Benitez seemingly unwilling to take a gamble on the 29-year-old.

The Liverpool boss reportedly had too many doubts over the player’s form and fitness to bring him back to Anfield, despite Owen being available on a free transfer and owner George Gillett also being keen on the deal.

The report also goes on to reveal that the Spaniard was concerned he might upset the club’s fans with a move for Owen, particularly as they remain unimpressed with the striker’s decision to leave the club for Real Madrid in 2004.

The former Newcastle United man also reportedly delayed travelling to Carrington for his United medical, in the hope that a move to Liverpool might appear.

However, the Reds were not interested, leaving the way clear for their bitter rivals to complete one of the most surprising transfers in recent years.

Gill Clark, Goal.com