Liverpool opened talks with Naby Keita over a new contract
According to Anfield Central (h/t Liverpool Echo), Liverpool is talking with Naby Keita and the Guinean’s representatives over a new contract. The 27-year-old runs out of contract with Liverpool in 2023, and the Reds would want to keep his market value intact instead of losing him for free.
Since joining the club in 2018 from RB Leipzig for £52.7m, Keita’s time at Merseyside has not been the most pleasant. Injury issues and inconsistent performances have frustrated the fans with the central midfielder. Last season improved as Keita scored four goals and got three assists from 40 appearances.
This season though, Keita has not featured for the Reds yet. A hamstring injury has forced him off the field. According to the gaffer, the former Salzburg midfielder should return sometime in October.
Back in August, Sky Sports’ Florian Plettenberg tweeted about Keita being ‘unhappy’ with his situation at the club. Although circumstances may have changed, a decision on his contract should be made as soon as possible.
Liverpool may be looking to provide a contract extension in order to maintain his market value and secure a decent deal for the player rather than losing him for free. In addition to Keita, Alex Oxlade-contract Chamberlain’s at Liverpool expires next summer.
The Reds may look to find a solution sooner rather than later, or Keita may be able to reach an agreement with a European club when the winter transfer window opens. Furthermore, Liverpool signed Arthur Melo on deadline day to help alleviate the injury issues, so losing Keita would not be as bad as it sounds.
Liverpool’s midfield could undergo a transformation next season, and aside from Jordan Henderson, no central midfielder can be certain of a future with the club. As a result, contract negotiations come at a critical juncture, and Liverpool should make a decision that benefits both the club and Naby.
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