Morientes seems to be frustrated at Real Madrid

The Spanish international striker recently said he would be interested in signing for Liverpool, due to his limited opportunities at the Bernabeu.

But Real said on their website: "Certain press speculation suggests the possibility of Fernando Morientes leaving Real Madrid.

"The club would like to say that the player is not for sale."

It had been reported that discussions had taken place between Real and Liverpool, with Madrid only interested in a permanent sale as oppose to a loan move or transfer with payment at a later date.

Owen not Real boss's first choice

Morientes' first-team prospects at the Bernabeu have not been helped by the arrival of Michael Owen and his agent Gines Carvajal recently said: "He's not happy because he isn't playing.

"He accepted the fact he didn't particularly have a big chance of being in the starting 11 every week, but he did expect to play now and again.

"It's easier to give an opportunity to someone from outside the club than it is to somebody who is already there."

Liverpool boss Rafael Benitez is believed to have wanted Morientes as part of the deal which took Owen to Real.

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Morientes had said: "Liverpool could be a great option for January."

"My situation at Real is not pleasant, if things continue like this I will have to think about leaving. I am tired of sitting on the bench.

"Liverpool is a club where any player would be happy to play. It is a club with a history of having great supporters, a good coach and now Spanish players."