26 Oct 2016

Klopp Wanted Me: 'Outstanding' €15m title winner confirms he could've signed for 'Liverpool'. Future transfer?

RB Leipzig midfield Naby Keita has confirmed that he rejected a move to Liverpool over the summer.

Speaking to Sportnet this week, Keita claimed:

"Liverpool...Arsenal, Manchester City and Southampton were all interested in signing me [but] I want to prove myself in the Bundesliga first."

Some info about 21-year old Keita, who cost Leipzig €15m over the summer:

* Box-to-box midfielder, who can also play as a DM. Current contract expires: 2020

* 2014-2016: Spent two years at Sadio Mane's old club, Red Bull Salzburg, and won the league and cup double two years in a row.

* Salzburg: 31 goals/assists in 81 apps (One every 191 mins).

* Leipzig: 3 goals/assists in 7 apps this season.

* 17 apps for the Guinea national team. Named Guinea 'Player of the Year' for 2015.

* Scouting Report (Strengths): "Keita flourishes when given the freedom to create attacking situations. Fast passing, high energy play him. He can play in any of the 3 attacking midfield positions".

* Scouting Report (Weaknesses): "Defensive play is not his strong suit. He may run around the field like N’Golo Kante [but] there [are not any] true comparisons with the Frenchman".

* Jun 2016: Lepzig Sporting director, Ralf Rangnick, raved: "He [Keita] fits [Leipzig's] team perfectly, with his dynamism, outstanding technical and tactical skills, and his character."

* Aug 2016: On his football hero: "My idol is Yaya Toure. He is strong, works hard and has made it to the very top."

Last week, Sadio Mane confirmed that Jurgen Klopp tried to sign him during his time at Salzburg, so the link with Keita (who also played for the Austrian club) makes perfect sense. Possible future transfer?


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