Aquilani could still have a Liverpool future, says Dalglish

Liverpool manager Kenny Dalglish has hinted that Alberto Aquilani could still have a future at Anfield.

Aqulani, 26, is coming to the end of his season-long loan spell at Juventus after former Reds boss Roy Hodgson allowed the Italian to return to Serie A to regain full fitness and secure regular first-team football.

The former AS Roma star was signed for £17m by Rafael Benítez in July 2009 and at the time was seen as a direct replacement for the Real Madrid-bound Xabi Alonso.

But Aqulani’s delayed return from injury meant the midfielder did not make his Liverpool debut until November 2009, a substitute appearance during the Reds’ 2-1 defeat by Arsenal in the Carling Cup third round.

“When people talk about next season, I’m surprised they don’t give Alberto a mention,” Dalglish told Liverpool’s website. “Everyone seems to have forgotten about him.”

Juventus are keen to acquire the services of the Italy international on a permanent basis but the Turin club are not believed to be willing to meet Liverpool’s reported valuation of £14m.

“I know he has done really well at Juventus this season,” continued Dalglish. “When the loan finishes at the end of the season, he reverts back to being a Liverpool player.

“Nothing is cast in stone and he could be coming back to play for Liverpool. He could be a valuable asset here next season. He’s still our player.”

The Liverpool manager added: “He certainly didn’t have the best of luck last season. At times he did really well and at other times he didn’t do quite so well but you can say that about most players. What I do know is that he’s had a fantastic season at Juventus.”