Morientes itching for return to Monaco

The Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes, reportedly a January transfer target for Liverpool, said he wants to join Monaco on a permanent basis.

The Real Madrid striker Fernando Morientes, reportedly a January transfer target for Liverpool, said he wants to join Monaco on a permanent basis.

The 28-year-old Spanish international spent last season on loan at the French club, finishing as top scorer in the Champions' League as Monaco reached the final - via victory over Real - before going down to Porto.

"Going back to Monaco would certainly be the best option," Morientes said. "I know the club, the way it works, I like it and I have great memories there."

He added: "I watch all their games and I know things are not going so well in Ligue 1. This is logical - after a great season it's always hard to produce another. And that's why everyone is talking about the arrival of new players, and especially mine."