Liverpool have made two bids for Naby Keita, reveals Red Bull Leipzig chief — who also admits he could leave next summer for just £48million
Reds second offer was believed to be £66m, but Bundesliga side would rather keep star for debut Champions League campaign
RED BULL LEIPZIG director confirms Liverpool made two offers for Naby Keita this summer — and that they are prepared to lose him for a lesser fee next season.
Jurgen Klopp had publicly targeted the Guinea international, and it is understood the club’s second bid reached £66million.
RB Leipzig sporting director Ralf Rangnick revealed the Reds’ approach was immediately rebuffed as last season’s Bundesliga runners-up refused to sell at any price.
He said: “There were two offers from Liverpool — and in between, also a telephone call between the clubs.
“For us, it was always clear that we would not give Naby Keita.
“That is why there was no direct contact.
“Every club that has sporting ambitions would have done the same as we did.
“But we must weigh it up.
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“If we let Keita go for €70-80m (£63-£72.m) this year, what more would that bring us compared to the sum we would get next year?”
Keita’s release clause will fall to £48m next summer.
And, Rangnick admits he would rather lose him then as they would likely be in a stronger position following a season in the Champions League.
