Could there be more hope in Liverpool’s increasingly frustrating Naby Keita chase…?
According to journalist Chris Williams, yes.
Williams, a UEFA credited journalist with links to both Liverpool and the Bundesliga, has boldly claimed that we’ve had an opening €65m bid for the Guinean rejected.
He goes on to suggest though that Red Bull Leipzig accept Keita’s desperation to move to Anfield and if we up our offer – the move could be a ‘formality’.
What’s more, German publication BILD agree with his claims, as does respected correspondent Melissa Reddy, who retweeted their report.
RB Leipzig have turned down an offer of €65m from Liverpool for Naby Keita.
— Chris Williams (@Chris78Williams) July 13, 2017
Reports from Germany that Keita is desperate to move Liverpool but RB Leipzig will not move on their “not for sale” stance
— Chris Williams (@Chris78Williams) July 13, 2017
From sources privately within RB Leipzig the club may deal at an improved figure. Balance in favour of a LFC move has tipped
— Chris Williams (@Chris78Williams) July 13, 2017
It could be a “formality” now that Keita moves to Liverpool during this window according to some within the German club.
— Chris Williams (@Chris78Williams) July 13, 2017
Williams even published an article in Fussballstadt in which he quoted his unnamed source, who explains the battle in the upper Red Bull Leipzig hierarchy in regards to the player’s future:
“Naby was given assurances that if a credible bid came in from a renowned club he would be allowed to leave before any clause came into effect” the source went on to say, but “qualification for the Champions League came earlier than expected so there are some within the club that think this is no longer an option”.
Williams’ exclusive on Keita is a long, well-researched piece, and we’d be VERY surprised if he’s fabricated these claims.
That kind of journalism is for the Metro, the Daily Star and the European transfer rumour websites who spark rubbish – but Williams’ word should be respected.
If he’s right, expect Liverpool to have to reach £70m before the Germans consider selling.
It does look though like the cogs on this transfer are finally moving in the right direction…