Peter Crouch took a bigger step forward to completing his £11million switch to Harry Redknapp’s Portsmouth today by agreeing terms at Fratton Park.

Formalities such as the completion of his medical are all set to be wrapped up in the next 24 hours, and Benitez says he is sad to see the England international striker leave Anfield.

He said, “He is a good professional and we would have wanted him to stay.

“We offered him a new contract. But sometimes you have to understand the player. He wanted to play a lot more.”

Last night Rafael Benitez sent the Rumour Mill into a frenzy of action by admitting the club are interested in signing Valencia and Spain striker David Villa.

The Spanish striker impressed during Euro 2008, where he partnered the Reds’ Fernando Torres up front in their country’s successful campaign.

Benitez said, “We have Torres, Voronin, Kuyt, Babel and Steven Gerrard, who can play as a second striker. But we will try to bring in another option.

“Villa we know all about. He is on our list. But maybe it will be difficult.”

Benitez issued his concerns today regarding the expected call-up of Ryan Babel to Holland’s Olympic Games squad. Benitez is worried that the international action, during August in Beijing, could disrupt Babel’s season so soon after the ankle injury that ruled him out of Euro 2008. More here >>>

And the Gareth Barry transfer saga rumbles on, with Aston Villa now demanding £17million plus Steve Finnan for their midfield skipper. >>> More here