Liverpool have to fight to keep Emre Can, Klopp admits

Add as a preferred source on Google

London, Nov 25: Liverpool are in a tricky battle to keep their star midfielder Emre Can which is quite visible but the manager Jurgen Klopp admitted the same to media for the first time.

The German international is out of contract at the end of the season and talks have reached an impasse with the Merseysiders about a new deal.

A stumbling block seems to be Can and his representatives wanting a release clause inserted into any new deal agreed with the Anfield club but the management denying to do so.

The 23-year-old is in a strong negotiating position as Liverpool are desperate to keep him, while he is free to pen a lucrative pre-contract with an overseas club in January.

Italian giants Juventus look to be in pole-position for the midfield general but Bayern Munich and Manchester City are also in contention.

But Klopp, speaking ahead of Saturday’s clash with Chelsea, is adamant there is still hope the former Bayer Leverkusen star could extend his stay on Merseyside.

Klopp said: “I said he could still sign a contract in May.

“We want to keep him, we have to be as attractive as possible as a club.”

The German boss then turned his thoughts to the champions' visit to Liverpool this weekend and had sympathy for Antonio Conte's side, who have fought back after a difficult start to the season.

Liverpool face Chelsea on Saturday at Anfield and it will be an important game as both side look to close the gap with Manchester City in the title race.

Klopp added: “They lost decisive players with Matic and Costa.

“With Chelsea last year, everything worked, they didn’t need many chances to win a game.

“It’s difficult to play the same season again, especially when you lose players.”