Liverpool transfer news: Fresh twist in Naby Keita deal

Keita will join Liverpool in the summer after they agreed a deal with Leipzig to sign the Guinea star one year early.

The Reds agreed to pay Keita’s £48m release clause and an additional premium but the midfielder was allowed to remain at Leipzig for the 2017/18 season.

But the German side have struggled to reach the heights of last term and currently sit sixth in the Bundesliga table.

On Saturday, Keita scored as Leipzig were beaten 5-2 by Hoffenheim at home.

With three games left, the result leaves Leipzig four points off a top four finish and a place in next season’s Champions League.

And according to The Times, if Leipzig finish in a Champions League qualification place, they will receive £59million from Liverpool.

Sixth place will mean the Europa League and a payment of £52.75m.

While a seventh place or below finish means Liverpool pay £48m.

Ahead of Keita’s arrival in the Premier League, Anfield legend Phil Thompson said he was confident the 23-year-old will dominate English football.

"They've already strengthened with the signing of [Naby] Keita from Leipzig. I think he is absolutely terrific," said Thompson.

"I was watching him against just last week in the Europa League and my goodness, this guy will probably give us what we've lacked.

"In that three behind the front three - he gives you goals, he gives you assists, he gives you energy and he's a nasty little character.

"There is only James Milner who will really put his foot in and I think this guy could be a real sensation in the Premier League."