Valencia to offer Benitez new deal

Valencia are reportedly ready to offer coach Rafael Benitez a two-year extension to his contract in a bid to ward off potential suitors.

Benitez has been linked with a move to Liverpool after leading the club to the Spanish league title and the UEFA Cup.

The Che have become alarmed at the increasing speculation and, according to locally-based Radio Nou, are keen for Benitez to remain until 2007.
Benitez appears to be keeping his options open.

"I have one year on my contract remaining. Everyone knows I think Valencia is a good place to live," he said.

"When a team, coach and players win as we have in Valencia, it is inevitable other clubs focus on them and show a certain interest.

"We are in the phase of listening at the moment and that's why I have an agent."

Benitez is adamant that he will not rest on his laurels.

"I want to have a team that can continue to battle to win titles," he said.

"What I want to do at the moment is have a rest and nothing else."

Liverpool, who are looking to replace Gerard Houllier, can offer Champions League football after finishing fourth in the table.

But a decision on their new manager is unlikely to take place before next week as chief executive Rick Parry is on holiday.