LIVERPOOL’S DETERMINATION TO sign Naby Keita is being met with difficulty as RB Leipzig have been unyielding in discussions regarding the sale of the all-action midfielder.
The 22-year-old, who has received proposals beyond the Anfield club’s interest, is open to leaving the Red Bull Arena this summer to fulfil the career trajectory he has envisioned.
Liverpool have been prepared to smash their highest spend and offer in the region of €56 million to secure Keita, whom Reds boss Jurgen Klopp believes is among the very best in the world in the centre of the park.
However, Leipzig – in a powerful financial and sporting position – want to build around the dynamo and are adamant in advancing their ambitions.
Keita, who is equally adept at operating in a box-to-role role or as a playmaker, would not actively seek an exit from Die Bullen given their presence in the Champions League, their enterprising philosophy as well as his standing among an exciting team.
He does, however, want to explore the options he has this summer and take the next step in his career if he decides so.
It is understood that if Leipzig became resigned to losing Keita, they could potentially be enticed if Liverpool smashed the Bundesliga record for a transfer, which is currently the €75 million Manchester City paid Wolfsburg for Kevin de Bruyne back in 2015.
The Reds have already completed the signing of Under-20 World Cup winner Dominic Solanke from Chelsea, with a compensation fee expected to be decided by tribunal, and the recruitment of Mohamed Salah.
The42 is on Instagram! Tap the button below on your phone to follow us!
