Leipzig keen to keep hold of Keita

RB Leipzig are determined to resist any approach from Liverpool for midfielder Naby Keita to move to Anfield earlier than scheduled.

The Reds have an agreement in place for the Guinea international to join them in July, having paid a premium to secure his services before a £48 million buy-out became active in the summer.

However, following the sale of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona for £142m, Jurgen Klopp would welcome an agreement for the midfielder to arrive this month, albeit with another additional fee to pay even though he would be ineligible for the knockout stages of the Champions League.

The final fee Liverpool will pay for Keita is dependent on Leipzig’s final league position.

Should they qualify for the Champions League the midfielder will cost the Reds £66m, with the price £10m less should they only make the Europa League.