Alonso: Move to Real Madrid out of my hands

MADRID (AP) - Liverpool midfield Xabi Alonso is flattered by the interest shown by Real Madrid, even if he has little say in where he ends up playing next season.

"The fact that Real wants you is always nice, above all, taking into account where I am in my career. But I've already said, at this point, what could happen is not my decision," Alonso told Spanish sports daily AS on Monday. "We will have to see what happens."

Alonso, however, said he was open to playing for the Spanish club, which has already spent more than €200 million ($285 million) on Cristiano Ronaldo, Kaka and Karim Benzema.

"Real Madrid's project is impressive," the Spain international said.

Liverpool coach Rafa Benitez gave no hint as to whether he will be willing to part with the midfielder, saying Monday that Alonso had traveled with the team to Thailand as part of its preseason tour of Asia.

Alonso is reportedly also being sought by Inter Milan.