English club want Dudek

The former Liverpool man, who left Anfield at the end of the season, is wanted by a host of top clubs including Real Madrid and Benfica, and now an English side have thrown their hat into the ring.

Sunderland and Aston Villa are both known to want a new goalkeeper, and they may turn their attentions to Dudek after Bolton's Jussi Jaaskelainen pledged his future to the club.

"I confirm that I have received an offer from England," Dudek said.

"Aside from that, we are talking about my transfer with some other clubs. I need to consider these offers very carefully. Making a decision will be difficult as all of them look really good."

The 33-year-old, whose international career has been put on hold after spending two years behind Jose Reina in the Liverpool pecking order, said his desire to play for Poland could be an obstacle to joining Real.

"I do not know whether I still have a chance to return to the Polish national team. If I want to achieve this I should play regularly on a high level in my future club.

"To be honest, the offer from Real Madrid complicated my plans a little bit. Even if I become the second choice goalkeeper, this will be at the best club in the world. And this is also a great honour.

"However, if I want to be considered by Poland coach Leo Beenhakker, the more reasonable decision will be to choose an offer not from Real but from another club.

"I have a big headache, but soon everything will become clear. Anyway, I remain optimistic. No matter what happens I believe it will be good."

- - -

Pawel Dimow