Liverpool have had two bids for RB Leipzig midfielder, Naby Keita, rejected, according to the Bundesliga side’s sporting director, Ralf Rangnick.
“There were two offers from Liverpool and in between times also a telephone call between the clubs. But not between me and Jurgen Klopp,” Rangnick said.
“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 ambitious would have done the same as we did.
“But we must weigh it up. If we let Keita go for €70-80m this year, what more would that bring us compared to the sum we would get next year?”
Liverpool have continued their chase of the 22-year-old, but Leipzig remain steadfast in their stance that the midfielder won’t be sold, despite receiving offers around €80million.
However, the Reds may have to wait a year longer to land their man following suggests by Rangnick that Keita could be allowed to leave if he proves himself in the CL.
“Sometimes, players develop even faster than the club,” Rangnick added.
“When he plays a season like last year and, if possible, in the Champions League too – then we might be able to let a player join a big club and live with it.”
