Liverpool are discussing Naby Keita as a potential ‘game-changer’ in Jurgen Klopp’s plans, should the midfielder remain fit and healthy this season, according to Goal.
Klopp gave Keita his support at the start of the term, with the Guinea international opening the first two Premier League fixtures. But he played no role in the Reds’ 1-1 stalemate with Chelsea prior to the international break, with Fabinho returning.
The Anfield natives are yet to field an unchanged midfield in any of their top-flight fixtures so far this campaign. With Keita, Jordan Henderson and Harvey Elliott all starting two of the three games, yet only together once against Burnley.
With Liverpool also waiting on Thiago Alcantara to make his first start of the season, Keita’s chances could rescind further. The 38-cap maestro has only shown glimpses on his ability since joining from RB Leipzig for £48m in 2018.
Klopp believes Keita has a rare talent that can take Liverpool to another level if he displays his skill consistently. Particularly in controlling games and offering creativity in the centre of the field in the post-Georginio Wijnaldum era on Merseyside.
Behind closed doors, Liverpool figures are also talking Keita up as an option who could be Klopp’s ‘game-changer’. Suggesting his future lies on the bench, and coming into matches during the closing stages to help flip the script.
Keita made just 10 appearances in the Premier League last term, with seven starting roles and three cameos. His combined 521 minutes marked the 26-year-old’s lowest return since moving to Anfield. Yet has 164 this season, as he looks to put his injury troubles in the past.
Can Keita be Klopp’s game-changer like Liverpool suspect?
Klopp will hope Keita can take a big step forward with his performances after struggling to make an impact in the final-third for Liverpool last season. He ended the term without any goals or assists across all competitions, over a total of just 16 appearances.
Keita enjoyed his most productive league campaign in 2019/20 when he offered two goals and three assists in 18 outings. His games that season were split even between the bench and starting roles. But each of his goal involvements came when opening the action.
So, Keita may need to reinvent his game to be the game-changer Liverpool figures believe he can be for Klopp. It may also be his best way at securing a long-term future at Anfield, with his £120k-a-week contract expiring in 2023.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
