Keita May Have to Force Leipzig’s Hand, Reds Unlikely to Pursue Alternatives

Although a number of pundits are saying that Liverpool have called time on their pursuit of RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita, with one month left in the transfer window there could be yet another turn in this transfer saga, but that would likely involve the Guinean midfielder making a formal, written request to leave the Saxony outfit.

“The player himself, though, could yet seek to force the issue with a transfer request,” explained German football expert Lee Price, a man who has written books about the Bundesliga and Reds manager Jurgen Klopp. “This is a deal that could go right down to the wire, and prove touch and go either way.”

Liverpool may be cleaning up in pre-season, but they know full stop that things only get tougher from here. The Merseysiders have remained coy over their attempts to bring Keita to Anfield ahead of the new season with Klopp joking that his final offer of €300mil would finally seal the deal, but that trademark smile only half-hid his frustration. Multiple bids for the Guinean have been turned away with Leipzig insisting that the 22-year old isn’t for sale to anyone, at any price — the same stance that the Anfield outfit are taking with Barcelona target and Liverpool talisman Philippe Coutinho.

“Regarding Keita, I don’t think that Klopp will go out and buy another midfielder,” said Reds legend Jamie Carragher speaking to 5times.co.uk. “I think he would be willing to wait until next season as supposedly Keita has a buyout clause. Nevertheless, if we go into the new season with what we’ve got now, I think there will be a lot of trepidation amongst the Liverpool fans,” added the Sky Sports pundit. “I’m sure the club are working 24/7 behind the scenes to bring players in, not only to keep the supporters happy, but to strengthen the squad for the big season ahead.”