£130k-a-week star now ‘likely to seal exit’ from Anfield

Liverpool star Naby Keita is expected to seal his departure from Anfield at the end of the season, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The central midfielder has been on the Reds’ books since they met the £48million release clause written into his RB Leipzig contract, along with an undisclosed premium, in 2018.

What’s the latest news involving Keita?

There is growing uncertainty over Keita’s long-term future as his £130,000-per-week Liverpool deal is set to expire next summer.

That means he is able to sign a pre-contract agreement with an overseas club at the turn of the year and a host of clubs – both in the Premier League and abroad – are queueing up for the 46-cap Guinea international’s signature.

According to Italian media outlet Milan Live, Serie A giants AC Milan are interested in Keita as he fits the profile of midfielder they are looking for in the transfer market.

The report suggests West Ham United and Newcastle United are keen to keep the Liverpool star – who has made 117 appearances for the club – in the English top flight, while Borussia Dortmund are mulling over whether to offer a return to the Bundesliga.

It is understood that Keita was left unhappy after talks over an Anfield contract extension broke down in August.

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What has Dean Jones said about Keita?

Jones is eager to see whether Keita can work his way into the forefront of Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp’s plans in the coming months.

The journalist believes the former Red Bull Salzburg man is likely to move onto pastures new after the season reaches its conclusion.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “Let’s see how the rest of the season goes for him.

“But, at the moment, I think the smart money is on the fact that Keita will leave Liverpool at the end of the season.”

Should Liverpool offer Keita a new contract?

Keita may have won seven trophies during his time on Merseyside – including the Premier League and Champions League – but it is the right time for Liverpool to move onto other options.

A five-minute cameo appearance in the Community Shield is the only time he has got onto the pitch this season due to injuries and that is a problem which has blighted his Reds career.

In fact, Keita has been unavailable for more than 80 matches during his time with Klopp’s side and that is a worrying statistic.

The 27-year-old may be the fourth most expensive signing in Liverpool’s entire history, but they would be wise to attempt to cash-in while they still have the chance in January.

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