Liverpool decline chance to reunite early with flop, contrary to reports
Liverpool will turn down the option of prematurely terminating German goalkeeper Loris Karius’ loan spell at Turkish side Besiktas, contrary to recent reports in the media.
The 26-year-old was jettisoned out of Anfield after a shaky 2018 pre-season compounded worries over his ability to recover from the infamous match-defining performance in the 2018 Champions League final defeat to Real Madrid.
A two-year loan to Turkish powerhouse Besiktas was agreed as Liverpool broke the world record transfer fee for a goalkeeper upon capturing the signature of Brazilian superstar Alisson Becker.
The spell away was intended to give Karius the opportunity to rebuild his career, but a jittery 2018-19 campaign did little to suggest the German would be able to recapture the form that lead to Jurgen Klopp splashing out £4.75m for his signature in 2016.
A report from the Turkish media yesterday suggested that Liverpool were open to ‘entertain[ing] talks with Besiktas over terminating goalkeeper Loris Karius’ loan spell at the club.‘
It had been reported that club president Ahmet Nur Cebi wanted to ‘rebuild his side and is looking to offload players – including Karius – who would be replaced by the re-signing of Fabri from Fulham.’
However, the latest report from regional outlet the Liverpool Echo has revealed that ‘[terminating Karius’ loan] is not an option for the Istanbul side, who will keep the 26-year-old until the end of the campaign.’
The article goes on to state that Karius is expected to return to Anfield upon the conclusion of his 24 month stint away, with a battle with Adrian expected to begin to become Alisson’s back-up unless a sale can be made.
