Tenuous links have been a predominant feature of Liverpool-related transfer talk of late and RB Leipzig have been responsible for continuing that trend.
The German club have been at hand to unintentionally fuel the idea that Naby Keita is on his way to Anfield this summer by doing some business of their own.
While Friday saw reports suggest a deal had been agreed in principle for Keita to join Liverpool, it also saw Leipzig complete the signing of midfielder Konrad Laimer from Red Bull Salzburg.
#RBLeipzig are delighted to announce the signing of @RedBullSalzburg‘s Konrad Laimer on a four-year deal.
Welcome to #DieRotenBullen! ?pic.twitter.com/3lvt0yc2iG
— RB Leipzig English (@RBLeipzig_EN) June 30, 2017
Sporting director Ralf #Rangnick: “Konrad #Laimer will improve our team in our transitional play and regaining possession.”
— RB Leipzig English (@RBLeipzig_EN) June 30, 2017
Laimer’s introduction could merely be in aid of bolstering the squad’s strength in depth ahead of the club’s involvement in the Champions League, but where’s the fun in that for Liverpool fans?
The fact he has been brought in to have a similar purpose to Keita hints at the idea he is a replacement for the Guinean, who could be on his way to Merseyside.
Signing the 22-year-old is likely to cost the Reds somewhere near to Leipzig’s reported £70million asking-price and would thereby mean Liverpool smashing their transfer record.
Supporters were inevitably quick to respond in good humour to the announcement of Laimer…
now give us Keita please
— Joe Joe K (@JoeJoeKLFC) June 30, 2017
pretty decent keita replacement tbf
— Ryan Kirkpatrick (@RyanK1rkpatr1ck) June 30, 2017
Thanks for preparing Keita’s departure..
— Flame (@frskdh) July 1, 2017
We are also delighted for your new keita!#YNWA
— RobertoFirmino (@UnusualCactus) June 30, 2017
Welcome Naby Keita to @LFC ?
— Fadinho (@MagicalFady) June 30, 2017
SEE MORE:
German football expert gives rave review of Naby Keita- compares him to Iniesta and Kante