Football updates
Liverpool star to be offered new contract amid interest from PSG
Liverpool star to be offered new contract amid interest from PSG
Liverpool have reportedly offered Naby Keita a new contract in an attempt to see off PSG interest
Liverpool want to tie Naby Keita to a new contract despite his lack of game time in order to ward off transfer interest from PSG, according to the Athletic.
When Naby Keita inherited the iconic number 8 shirt of Liverpool famously worn by Steven Gerrard after his £50 million move from RB Leipzig, the fans expected him to live up to the expectations.
However, the Guinean has struggled to maintain consistency, with Jurgen Klopp preferring Thiago, Fabinho, and Jordan Henderson over him.
Liverpool want to tie Naby Keita to a new contract despite his lack of game time in order to ward off transfer interest from PSG, according to the Athletic.
PSG is interested in signing Keita, whose contract with PSG is set to expire next year. Luis Campos, PSG’s new sporting director, feels the player may be a good replacement for Gini Wijnaldum, who has fallen short of expectations in Paris.
However, Liverpool doesn’t want to give away Keita that easily. Jurgen Klopp wants to keep hold of him as the manager has plans that include the 27-year-old. In order to see off the PSG interest, they are believed to be eyeing to bind him to a new contract soon.
In 40 games in all competitions last season, Keita scored four goals and provided three assists, which is a disappointing performance given the price Liverpool paid for him. Last season, the Guinean was able to bring his form to the field on a few occasions, but his spell was cut short due to injuries and a lack of game time.
Given Liverpool’s aging midfield, Keita may be better suited to filling the role of backup midfielder than any of the other newcomers. The club will go through a transition period at some time in the future, and the Guinean midfielder’s availability could help the process.
Also, selling the 27-year-old will mean a loss for the Merseyside, considering the huge price Liverpool paid to acquire him.