Thursday June 29, 2000, 10:57 PM London Time Barmby drops Liverpool bombshell on Walter By John Edwards

Nick Barmby has left Everton manager Walter Smith reeling by declaring that he wants to play for city rivals Liverpool.

Despite a pay offer of #27,000-a-week and a personal plea from Everton owner Bill Kenwright, Barmby ended final talks over a new deal by revealing that he sees his future at Anfield.

Smith responded by putting the former Tottenham player on the transfer list for #8million and the early signs are that Barmby could regret his decision.

Liverpool have checked on his availability but will not go any higher than #4m for a player who will become a free agent next summer.

With Chelsea's interest cooling, the 26-year-old England midfielder could be left to suffer a backlash from Everton supporters who have backed him throughout a moderate three-and-a-half years since his #5.75m move from Middlesbrough.

Smith revealed how he was forced to concede defeat despite offering Barmby an extra #10,000-a-week.

'Nick has indicated to me that he would like to move to Liverpool,' said Smith. 'We have received an inquiry from Liverpool and we must now wait to see if they make an official approach'. 'We've made every attempt to retain his services and we are all bitterly disappointed with this development'. 'I do not believe any player can be fully committed in the final year of his contract unless he has negotiated an extension. Therefore, it is beneficial for him to move on.'

Alessandro Pistone has agreed personal terms with Everton and the left back will complete his #3m move from Newcastle today, provided he passes a medical.

His arrival will increase the pressure on Michael Ball, who is a #3m target for Leicester boss Peter Taylor.

-- Anonymous, June 30, 2000