Emre Can is almost definitely leaving Liverpool.
The 23-year-old German is not putting pen to paper on a new deal which would significantly improve his wages because we’re refusing to insert a bargain release-clause.
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Respected journalist James Pearce has hinted that Can is now in a position where the decision he makes next may not be a footballing one, because he’s already a key player at a big club.
Pearce wrote in the Echo:
“Talks started back in June 2016 but they are no closer to finding a compromise. The player has insisted it’s not about money but it can’t be about playing time as he’s started 13 of Liverpool’s 17 games in all competitions so far this season.”
If Can joins somebody on a Bosman, he’ll get a massive signing on fee, which his future club will be happy to pay instead of a transfer fee.
He can also speak to multiple teams and in a way, decide his own future, whereas if he’s contracted to Liverpool, he can only leave on our terms or to teams whose offers we accept.
From a purely individual perspective, you can see why Can is choosing to leave this way – his potential clubs and money is maximised.
If he really doesn’t want to play under his countryman Jurgen Klopp then that’s his prerogative. He’s a good player, but not irreplaceable, especially when Naby Keita is arriving.
We hope he’ll live to regret it as much as Michael Owen.