Benitez rules out Liverpool move for Nistelrooy

London, Jan 3 (ANI): Liverpool boss Rafa Benitez has ruled out a move for ace Real Madrid striker Ruud van Nistelrooy and insisted Ryan Babel is staying put.

The Merseysiders have been credited with an interest in the Real Madrid striker while fellow Dutchman Babel has spoken about his desire to quit Anfield.

However, after being forced to replay with Reading in the FA Cup, Benitez stressed that, although talks are progressing well on other fronts, the January window will not map out as some had envisaged, News of the World reports.

"I don't want to talk about individual players or names, but we are not trying for Ruud van Nistelrooy, so that will be very difficult to bring him in!" said Benitez.

"We are working hard on getting some players in, and have had some good talks but my priority now is talking about good things with my players," he said.

"And we are not trying to sell Ryan Babel either. Today we were thinking about using him but I wanted to play players who are focused. He has to work harder to get in the team and play if he wants to go to the World Cup. He will have a chance and work hard for Liverpool," Benitez added. (ANI)