Valencia bid for Riise

Valencia boss Ronald Koeman has launched a £4million bid to sign Liverpool’s John Arne Riise. Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez is determined to keep 27-year-old Riise but Spanish giants Valencia have made him their top priority.

Koeman said: “He is a player with experience and would offer some options for our game.”

Valencia sporting director Miguel Angel Ruiz said: “We want to improve our squad.”

Valencia have already crashed out of the Champions League and are determined to send a strong message to their fans.

The Spaniards first approach for European Cup winner Riise was rejected. They are set to go back for him, though Benitez is determined to fend them off.

Norway international defender Riise is a regular at Anfield and can play at left-back or in left midfield.

Valencia’s alternative is Inter Milan’s Brazilian left-sided player Maxwell but Riise remains their first choice.