Liverpool manager Rafa Benitez has expressed his determination to hang on to midfielder Xabi Alonso, despite appearing ready to sell him to fund the purchase of Gareth Barry from Aston Villa last summer.

The Spaniard looked to be on his way out of Anfield last summer, when a number of clubs were interested in securing his services.

Benitez insisted it would take a "massive" offer for him to part with Alonso and was not tempted by a proposal from Juventus.

The 27-year-old has gone on to enjoy an excellent season, helping the Reds challenge for the Premier League title.

Press reports suggest Real Madrid and Barcelona could target Alonso when the transfer window reopens but Benitez has warned any potential suitors he will fight to keep hold of Alonso.

"We had an offer from Juventus and asked a big price as he is a big player. They couldn't meet it," Benitez said. "In the end, Xabi has been having a very good season. He has been playing well in a lot of games and is a key player for us.

"We have a lot of confidence in him and he is a player we want to keep because he has the quality, and the game, that we need."