Proposed Liverpool exit hits stumbling block as AC Milan doubts surface over faltering man
AC Milan are reportedly concerned about the wage demands and physical fitness of Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita, who they have been offered.
Keita has failed to live up the expectation put on him since joining the Reds. The Guinean midfielder seemed a good addition after 11 goal contributions from 27 Bundesliga games in his final season at RB Leipzig.
That he’s never made that amount of league appearances in a single season at Anfield is one sign that he’s not been what they expected.
Indeed, he failed to force his way into the Reds’ best side, and been used sparingly throughout his career in England. This season, injuries have limited his playing time in the Premier League to just eight league games.
Only three of those have come from the start and he’s been omitted from the squad of late. Indeed, it would appear he’s no longer part of Jurgen Klopp’s plans.
That has been reinforced by insider Fabrizio Romano. He revealed recently that there are “no talks” planned between Keita and the club to extend his contract.
Given that runs out at the end of the season, he’ll more than likely be moving on.
There are a few potential options for the midfielder as his Liverpool career comes to an end.
AC Milan not convinced due to two factors
Barcelona have reportedly registered a shock interest in the faltering Reds man. Keita could, though, find himself moving to Serie A.
Calciomercato reports the midfielder has been offered to AC Milan. by his representatives.
However, there are a couple of things that will need ironing out before that move has legs. Indeed, the report states Milan are concerned about two factors.
Keita’s salary is apparently ‘too high’ and there are also doubts about his ‘physical fitness’. Indeed, the latter likely stems from the fact he’s missed a good chunk of the season through injury.
That he’s not been offered a whole lot of game time since his return from injury doesn’t help his case.
However, the contract issues could potentially be sorted. After an admittedly poor period at Liverpool, he’ll want to show he’s still got what it takes to play for a big club, and taking a pay cut could show he’s serious about doing so.
Inter could swoop for Keita
Interest from Milan’s city rivals Inter could be a blessing or a curse for their pursuit of Keita. Indeed, Calciomercato reports there are ‘possibilities’ for the midfielder to join the club.
That’s because Inter’s director is a ‘great admirer’ of him. Interest from a rival club could be the catalyst for Milan to make the move for Keita.
They could be forced into paying a higher wage if they don’t want to see the Reds man move to their rival. On the other hand, it could mean they put to bed any thought of signing him and Inter are given an easier run.
In any case, it seems Keita could have a future at a big club, it’s just unclear which one as yet.
