DUBAI // Dubai International Capital (DIC) have made it clear they still want to buy Liverpool, as the club's ownership battle threatens to flare up again over the proposed transfer of Gareth Barry. Manager Rafa Benitez is reported to be at loggerheads with Liverpool's American owners Tom Hicks and George Gillett after it emerged the duo had turned down an offer of a £12million (Dh84.6m) interest-free loan to help to buy Aston Villa midfield player Barry, 27. Benitez had waited all week for money to be put in place to allow him to end the Barry saga before he sells any more players to fund the deal. But the US owners' failure to produce the promised short-term loan may mean the £18m transfer deal could soon be dead. The debacle might play straight in to the hands of long-term suitors DIC who have let it be known they are still waiting in the wings with their own proposals for the club. The investment group had a £400m offer for the Merseyside club turned down in March and a source close to DIC said: "Just because it is has been a quiet summer does not mean DIC have lost interest. They are happy that things have now become low key, and they are awaiting developments." There is also speculation a former prospective buyer, and several rich US-based fans, are ready to help the club out of their cash problems. Observers believe plans for the new stadium have, as yet, not included confirmed building contracts or the lease being agreed with the local council. The club's owners are also going to have to find cash soon to fund the stadium as well as re-finance the current loans. But the delay over the Barry deal is beginning to embarrass Liverpool. As soon as it was suggested the owners were looking to borrow money to fund the deal, City sources - admittedly close to the DIC bid - insisted borrowing would be difficult in the current climate. * Agencies