Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp makes Naby Keita admission, sends message to midfielder

Keita emerged as one of Liverpool’s top transfer targets last summer after enjoying a terrific debut campaign in the Bundesliga.

Leipzig refused to sell at the time though and Liverpool were forced to strike an agreement that will see him join them this summer.

Leipzig have drifted off the pace this season and sit sixth, with Keita one of a number of players to experience a drop-off in form.

Klopp has now opened up about the Guinea international, who’s endured his fair share of disciplinary problems this year.

"This was a difficult season for Naby in Germany, and for Leipzig, in general but he still had outstanding performances," said Jurgen Klopp.

"Maybe not the same number as last year, but the whole Leipzig team didn’t do exactly the same as last year either.

"But one thing for Naby and us is that he doesn’t play in the World Cup so he will have a full pre-season which will help him a lot to prepare for the season with us."

Klopp’s admission came after he had invited Keita to join Liverpool in Kiev later this month as they take on Real Madrid in the Champions League final.

"Bringing [Keita] in the dining room and saying: ‘Boys, he will play for you next season!’ doesn’t really make any sense. It's not my first problem, but I will think about it," he said.

"I have not been thinking about things like this, but if Naby is reading this and he wants to come with us to the final, he is invited!

"Hopefully, Naby will have a big effect on the team immediately because of his quality."

Keita could take Emre Can’s place in Liverpool’s squad, with the Germany international looking set to leave Anfield when his contract expires in the summer.