The 24-year-old Australian stopper is first choice at the Madejski Stadium but dad Tony has revealed his son's agent has been approached about a dream move to Anfield where he would be understudy Pepe Reina.

Tony also insisted son Adam "would be mad" not to accept the chance. Federici Snr, an estate agent in his homeland, said: "If I was advising him, in the big scheme of things, you'd have to be mad not to not to take it.

"I spoke to Adam and his agent has said he was aware that there had been some contact.

"There is some substance to it, but I don't know how keen Reading would be to let him go given he is their first-choice keeper.

"Adam has always wanted to play with one of the top four or five clubs. We'll all know more after Thursday."

Federici was part of the side that dramatically knocked Liverpool out of the FA Cup at Anfield last night.

Manager Benitez has been interested in signing Federici since the rising star's performance in the original tie against Liverpool, two weeks ago, which finished 1-1.

Federici became Reading's first-choice keeper at the start of the season and has 18 months left on his Royals contract. His Dad, however, admitted he faces a dilemma.

Federici snr went on: "To be part of such a big club would be a great opportunity, but he needs to play.

"Adam's main priority is to play regularly; if he plays the rest of the year for Reading he will have a full season as a No 1 under his belt.

"Reina is only 27, but if in six months or a year there was a first-choice spot, it would be a great move.

"It is an attractive move, but he would be going there as the back-up."