Jul 1 2005 - French youngster Carl Medjani could be set to stay at Anfield after Rafa Benitez told him he wants to have a closer look at him. Medjani spent the whole of last season on loan at French side Lorient, and had been attracting the attention of Metz amongst others. The talented central defender had been keen on a return to his homeland, and spoke to Benitez about that possibility earlier this week.
He was told he was going nowhere for the time being, as Benitez is looking to strengthen his pool of reserve team players following last season's disappointing campaign in which the reds finished second from bottom of the FA Premier Reserve League North.
The reds boss wants to assess Medjani's form after he impressed whilst skippering his country in the recent Toulon u21 tournament, but the player is believed to prefer a return to France rather than face a full season playing reserve team football. Another loan move can't be ruled out entirely at this stage.
Benitez has already moved to improve the second string this summer, agreeing deals for young Spanish defenders Miquel Roque and Antonio Barragan, and handing a trial to highly rated 16 year old Jack Hobbs from Lincoln.
More youngsters are expected to arrive before the start of the season.
