Alonso: Barca close to my heartBy Chris Stanton - Created on 17 Mar 2007
Xabi Alonso admits admirers Barcelona are a club very close to his heart, but the Spaniard is adamant he is focused on Liverpool's current campaign.
Barcelona are reportedly in the running for Alonso, with claims they will test the Premiership side's resolve with a bid this summer.
Rafa Benitez has held contract talks with the influential star, although any decision on the player's future has been put on hold until the end of the season.
That scenario has only added heightened speculation but Alonso claims he is not unsettled and will only decide on his own future once The Reds' end-of-season fate is known.
"The rumours about my return to Spain are going on all the time. My situation is clear, if any club want me then it is obligatory for them to speak with Liverpool," Alonso is quoted as saying in the Daily Star.
"Now in my head I only have a place for The Reds. We are at a key moment in the season and I do not want any distraction.
"Liverpool have presented me with a new deal but until the end of the season I do not have an answer for them.
"Barcelona is a city very important to me and the club is also important to my father [former Barca player Perico Alonso], but in the world of football you cannot always make a decision with your heart."