Cole's route out of Liverpool?

Harry Redknapp has a reputation as a wheeler dealer- half true the rest made up of media image probably- but the move reported in the Star today takes some believing for it to happen, even with Redknapp's reputation.

The paper reports that new QPR boss Redknapp is eyeing up seldom-seen Liverpool winger Joe Cole on a free transfer. So far, so believable.

Now, here is the kicker- Cole is under contract for another 18 months and Redknapp wants him in January meaning Liverpool would have to tear up the contract at a cost of some £5.5million. That's some negotiating skills if that comes off.

The money would cover Cole's £70k a wages for the remaining time on his contract which would allow Cole to leave on a freebie.

On the one hand, it makes sense as it would get Cole off the Liverpool wage bill, though, on the more compelling evidence hand, seeing as Liverpool reportedly have a tight budget as it is and lack a striker, there could be more use for that £5.5million in January for the Reds to be spending their cash on.

Still, old 'Arry eh? If anyone can do it, it might well be that man. That's the angle the story runs on anyway.