Alonso: Liverpool buyers must uphold club's history

Xabi Alonso has insisted the Dubai consortium planning a Liverpool takeover must protect the traditions and heritage of the five-times European Cup winners.

Dubai International Capital, the financial arm of the Maktoum family who rule the Middle East state, are conducting due diligence – scrutiny of the club‘s books – ahead of a potential £500m (€739m) buy-out.

Alonso, who has been at Anfield only two years, is already acutely aware of the pride and history that surrounds England’s most successful club.

He said: “It will be a good next step for us but Liverpool has always had respect and pride in their traditions. For so many years the club has been winning trophies.

“It is important to have money, but it is also important to respect those traditions. I have realised in my few years here that everyone is so proud of the history.”

Alonso added: “We must think about that and keep them while trying to improve the club. That would be the best way for the players and supporters.

“If the takeover is good for the club then obviously I am happy. It’s not done yet, but really close.

“They will bring new ideas, and money. The new stadium is a priority and that will help the level the team can reach as well as new players.

“We will have to see what route the club take but if they decide this is the best idea we must be happy and look to the future with optimism.

“Some of the players here have been in Liverpool for a long time and they understand what Liverpool means to the people, the city, the whole area.

“The new players also understand that commitment and I am sure anyone who comes to Liverpool will see this. I am sure new people will see the good things at the club.”