25.07.2004 - Josemi close to securing Reds move

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Liverpool are close to completing the signing of defender Jose Miguel Gonzalez Rey from Malaga for a fee of £2.6million.

The Spaniard, who is more commonly known as Josemi, is now just a medical away from becoming the second new addition to the squad this summer, and he is looking forward to making the move to the Premiership.

"I am really happy because this is an unbeatable opportunity. If I was ever going to leave Malaga, it was for something like this," he said.

"It's what I've always dreamed about and now I have the chance to play in a big team."

Josemi made 92 league appearances for Malaga in the three years in which he was part of their first team squad, though while he was unable to get his name on the scoresheet during his time at Malaga, he was no stranger to getting his name taken by La Liga's referees, with Josemi picking up 33 bookings and a red card in the last three seasons.

With the ability to play both as a right sided full back or at centre half, it's uncertain where Rafa Benitez is intending to use him, but Josemi is equally capable in either position and he is expected to break into the Spanish national team before too long.

Liverpool are hoping to complete a deal quickly enough to allow Josemi to take part in their American tour.