"Rafa (Benitez) arranged this knowing what was coming. It was important that we know. So far, most of what is being said is a lie. We were negotiating through the press. It makes no sense," he said.

Meanwhile Alonso admitted he was pleased that progress was at last being made.

"It's reassuring to know that Madrid and Liverpool are talking seriously now. I decided a long time ago to stay on the margin of everything that was happening.

"My stance has been clear, as you all know. I'm a professional and I must wait for an agreement to be reached, but I hope it is resolved soon, for better or for worse," he said.

Liverpool's Xabi Alonso warms up during a training session at the club's Melwood training complex in Liverpool, northern England, November 25, 2008

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