Naby Keita Not Seeking To Join Liverpool In January – RB Leipzig

RB Leipzig CEO Oliver Mintzlaff has said Naby Keita has not asked for an early transfer to Liverpool and has also dismissed concerns the midfielder’s commitment could wane in his final months at the club.

In August, Liverpool agreed a deal to sign Keita next summer for a “a significantly higher transfer fee” than his €55 million release clause.

However, Mintzlaff played down the prospect that the 22-year-old could make the switch to Anfield in January.

“Neither Naby nor his agent have made the request to leave the club in the winter,” the Leipzig chief told Bild. “There are contracts, and they say that he will be a Liverpool employee from July 1 onwards.”

Mintzlaff said he is confident Keita will continue to give it his all when the Ruckrunde — the second half of the season — commences later this month.

“It’s not Naby’s disposition [to save himself]. Our pros have character and are ambitious,” Mintzlaff said. “I am not worried. In 2018, I expect everyone to step up with maximum mentality, force and character. That’s what makes us strong, and that’s what we need for a successful Ruckrunde.

“We want to achieve a lot, want to return to Europe and would love to again qualify for Champions League.”

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