Naby Keita’s Liverpool stint
Keita joined Liverpool in 2018 from German outfit RB Leipzig, for a reported fee of £54m.
The African had stood as one of the Bundesliga’s standout talents during his stint with Leipzig, with Liverpool’s fans having no doubt been excited to see what their latest addition could do in the Premier League.
However, since making the switch to Anfield, it is fair to say that Keita has very much underwhelmed.
The midfielder has been plagued by injury and fitness issues during his time on Merseyside, and also contracted Covid-19 last season.
But even when fit, Jurgen Klopp doesn’t seem to trust the former RB Salzburg man too much.
Instead, a midfield trio of Georginio Wijnaldum, Jordan Henderson and Fabinho had previously been the German’s go-to throughout what has been Liverpool’s most successful period for many years.
Why Keita doesn’t want to sign new Liverpool deal
Even with Wijnaldum now gone, however, Keita is still seemingly not a first-choice option at Liverpool.
Before his injury vs Leeds, youngster Harvey Elliott was becoming a prominent starter in Liverpool’s midfield, whilst Thiago had also been used quite frequently before he also suffered an injury.
So, it does seem as though Keita is perhaps Liverpool’s 5th choice central midfielder when everyone is fit.
As a result, it is perhaps not too surprising to see it claimed that Keita is ready to snub a new Liverpool contact offer.
As per Goal, citing German outlet Bild, the reason for this is because Keita is not a guaranteed starter and is reluctant to commit his long-term future to Premier League giants as a result.
Keita’s current deal runs out in 2023 and if he does not wish to pen fresh terms, perhaps Liverpool will need to move him on in the summer to ensure he does not leave for nothing.
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