Liverpool, Naby Keita agree to 2018 transfer

Liverpool finally strike gold, agree with Leipzig on fee for the transfer of Naby Keita

Following multiple rejected bids and a summer of interest, Liverpool have finally found success. Liverpool and RB Leipzig have agreed on a deal to send midfielder Naby Keita to Anfield on July 1, 2018. Keita passed his medical in England and inked a five-year deal beginning in 2018.

The 22-year-old will remain with Leipzig throughout the duration of the 2017 season. Leipzig view Keita as a vital piece for success during their first season in the Champions League. However, after rejecting two bids from Liverpool already (including a near £70 million bid) Leipzig found it impossible to fight off the English giants and agreed to a deal as Liverpool triggered Keita’s exit clause. But, Keita will remain with the club during their first Champions League appearance. The deal will be worth around £48 million, breaking the previous Liverpool transfer record.

Although he will not journey to Anfield until the summer of 2018, Keita is viewed as a crucial piece to the future of Liverpool. Keita is said to be viewed as manager Jurgen Klopp’s top target. But, the Reds don’t look to slow down in the transfer market. Liverpool are reportedly set to launch a £55.5 million bid for Monaco forward Thomas Lemar before the window closes. In addition, the Reds are keeping an eye on Southampton defender Virgil van Dijk, who is keen on a move to Anfield.

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As Liverpool find themselves back in the Champions League, Anfield seems a much more glorious destination now. The Reds find themselves on the fast track to both domestic and European success. Klopp and company are now tossing the Liverpool name into the hat for some of Europe’s most bright young stars with Keita being the latest to buy into Klopp’s vision for the future at Anfield.