Radamel Falcao remains Liverpool’s striker priority

Radamel Falcao remains Liverpool’s priority this summer, despite their interest in Mario Balotelli.

04.02.2011, Vicente Calderon Stadion, Madrid, ESP, Primera Division, Atletico Madrid vs Rayo Vallecano, 15. Spieltag, im Bild Falcao // during the football match of spanish 'primera divison' league, 15th round, between Atletico Madrid and Rayo Vallecano at Vicente Calderon stadium, Madrid, Spain on 2011/12/04. EXPA Pictures © 2011, PhotoCredit: EXPA/ Alterphotos/ Alex Cid-Fuentes..***** ATTENTION - OUT OF ESP and SUI *****

Numerous reports on Thursday explain how Liverpool have not been put off by a potential £12 million loan fee for Falcao, with a view to a permanent move next summer, but the player himself favours a move to Real Madrid.

The Telegraph report that Liverpool have grown frustrated in their ambitious pursuit of the Colombian forward, and are therefore exploring the option of Italian Balotelli.

The Liverpool Echo write that “Liverpool remain keen on Monaco’s Radamel Falcao and haven’t been put off by talk of a £12million loan fee. But the Colombian frontman still favours a move to Real Madrid.”

The Daily Express quote French radio channel RMC saying that Liverpool chiefs have given the green-light for an audacious season-long loan deal worth £12m.

The offer would include an automatic purchase clause of £40m after the conclusion of the Colombian’s loan.

Earlier on Wednesday, The Guardian reported how Real Madrid need to sell an EU player before Falcao can join their squad – so can only do so if/when Angel Di Maria leaves the club, something manager Carlo Ancelotti is fighting against.

It looks as though Liverpool want Falcao and he is their first choice, but given that much relies on Real Madrid, it could drag out until the very end of the transfer window. Will Liverpool decide to move for Balotelli instead, or sit and wait for Falcao?