Benitez wins Alonso tussle with Real Madrid.

RAFAEL BENITEZ has won his battle of wills with Real Madrid, after the Spaniards admitted they have finally given up their long-running pursuit of Xabi Alonso.

Bernabeu president Florentino Perez had declared his desire to sign the Anfield star but it appears Benitez's steadfast refusal to budge has won the day for Liverpool..

Real's director of sport Jorge Valdano said: "With regards to Xabi Alonso, Liverpool made an announcement on Sunday and it seems they don't want to sell him, so it will be hard for him to end up playing here.

"I've always liked him, since my first time at Real Madrid. I did a massive effort to bring him here a few years back, we met with Real Sociedad but when I left the deal slipped into the background.

"Liverpool valued him at 18million euros last year because he wasn't an essential player. But he is now. They've given him more chances to play and he has responded magnificently." Madrid, meanwhile, face losing out to bitter rivals Barcelona in their bid to snap up David Villa from financially-stricken Valencia.

Reports suggest Barca are prepared to pay around 50million euros, as well as offer players Bojan Krkic and Jose Martin Caceres, for the Spain international and Valdano admits they are not prepared to better that bid..