Liverpool will now move for Naby Keita next summer, after Jurgen Klopp’s attempts to sign him failed.
Liverpool have tested the water with numerous bids for Keita, but Leipzig have been true to their word and rejected all bids for the midfielder to date.
The Reds now feel that waiting another 12 months for Keita may be their best option.
Keita has a clause in his contract which comes into effect next summer, which means he can leave Leipzig for £48 million.
And Liverpool now feel confident that they will be able to activate that clause and sign him in another year’s time.
While that is a blow for Jurgen Klopp’s plans this season, Liverpool are now assessing other options in central midfield.
Keita remains Klopp’s first choice option, but the German boss realises that he may be forced to look elsewhere.
Liverpool could now bring in another midfielder in the next few weeks, as they build up to the competitive campaign.
The Reds get their season under way with a match against Watford at Vicarage Road at the start of August.
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