Liverpool target Albert Riera has revealed he is desperate to quit Espanyol.

The £6million-rated Spanish winger is being chased by Kop boss Rafa Benitez.

And Riera has accelerated his exit by slamming the criticism aimed at the club’s players.

He said: “I want to leave Espanyol. I do not want to be part of a club that does not take care of or protect its players.

“I do not know if I will go to Liverpool or some other team. I am staying hopeful and I would really like everything sorted out within the next two weeks.

“It would be best for everyone concerned because I know that my transfer would clearly be beneficial. I do not want to cause any problems.

“I don’t want to be at a club where the supporters have no love for the players, or where it depends on whether the team qualifies for Europe or not.”

Riera’s move to Anfield could be thrown into doubt after it was revealed he has a £16million release clause in his contract.

Sporting director Paco Herrera, a former Liverpool coach, said: “If he says he is going to go then he has more information than his club – he must know that there is an interested club who will pay the amount of money needed.”

Rafa Benitez is after Espanyol’s £6million-rated winger Albert Riera.

Liverpool will try to offload Argie Sebastian Leto as part of the deal.

Spaniard Reira, who was on loan at Manchester City two years ago, is also interesting Blackburn and Spurs.

Benitez said: “Philipp is still young but has great experience from Dortmund and on the international stage with Switzerland.

”He also played in the Champions League during his time with Basel and so is used to top level football.”

The Kop chief also wants Bordeaux skipper Ulrich Rame, 35, as back-up to first choice keeper Pepe Reina.

Benitez hopes to tempt the French runners-up into a straight swap for his current second choice keeper Charles Itandje.

Rame, a former French international, would have to forego Champions League action for a place on the bench at Anfield, but the Reds hope higher wages and a two-year deal will sway him.