Lee Bowyer's proposed £9million transfer from Leeds United to Liverpool hangs in the balance today after both sides failed to agree on personal terms. It has been reported that Bowyer wants £4million in wages and a signing-on package to switch to Anfield, but both parties have failed to reach agreement after two days of talks and negotiations are set to continue. Liverpool have refused to be drawn on what stage the discussions are at and a spokesman would only say: "Talks are still on-going."
This development is in stark contrast to the situation on Monday when the transfer appeared to be a done deal. Bowyer and Liverpool boss Gerard Houllier were all smiles as they were pictured shaking hands at the club's Melwood training ground.
Then it seemed only a matter of time before the deal would go through after Liverpool had agreed an initial £7million fee with Leeds last week, rising to £9million depending on appearances and England caps. It is believed Liverpool are only prepared to offer £35,000 a week for his services, but Bowyer is holding out for £40,000, a sum Leeds had offered him to stay at Elland Road.
However, despite this impasse, the deal is not dead and Liverpool hope the deadlock can be broken.
Filed by Shane Murray
