Rafael Benitez has conceded he may have to consider widening his search for a new striker should Newcastle United's interest in signing Fernando Morientes price him out of a move for the Real Madrid forward.

The Liverpool manager is reluctant to improve on the £3.5 million offer tabled for his compatriot this week, conscious that Morientes is cup-tied in Europe and has only 18 months to run on his contract. Real are seeking twice that fee, with Newcastle capable of meeting their valuation.

"I know Newcastle are trying to sign the player and talk with his club, but he prefers to play in Liverpool," said Benitez. "Morientes is one of the possibilities, but I'm not saying he's the only one. We are looking for different players because we don't want to have only one option."

Manchester City striker Nicolas Anelka would be an alternative, though Benitez has been made aware of numerous forwards' availability by agents on the continent.

Benitez, though, will be boosted by the news Steven Gerrard has insisted he loves Liverpool and wants to be part of any future Anfield success.

"I feel there is more to come from me, so I can help the club win honours," he said. "All the comments I have made (regarding a possible move) have been because I love this club and truly want to be successful. I want us to do everything we can as a club to be winning trophies again and I want to be part of a successful Liverpool.

"I'm a Liverpool player, signed for this season and another two, so there is no situation for me."

The Liverpool captain added he would love to see Morientes at Anfield.

"Morientes is a great player. If we are able to get hold of him and it happens we will have got ourselves a great player."