Liverpool transfer news and rumours: Riyad Mahrez not for sale, Leon Goretzka decision imminent

A round-up of the latest stories regarding ins and outs at Anfield

Monday 15 January 2018 13:18 GMT
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Pep Guardiola and Jurgen Klopp reflect on Liverpool victory over Man City

Liverpool will not be taking Riyad Mahrez from Leicester City this January, according to the Algerian winger’s manager Claude Puel.

After his side’s creditable draw at Stamford Bridge on Saturday, Puel insisted that he is “not afraid” of Mahrez leaving the east Midlands before the month is out.

“I have confidence in Riyad,” said Puel. “We have spoken a lot with him about different things but often about football.

“Of course we are in the transfer window and it is normal for the all the best players. I am not afraid about this because there is a fantastic spirit and good atmosphere in the squad. I think we saw this afternoon.”

Leon Goretzka, meanwhile, is expected to announce his decision on his future in the coming days.

The Schalke 04 midfielder is out of contract this summer and has been linked with both Liverpool and Arsenal, though Bayern Munich remains favourites for his signature.

Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, Bayern’s chief executive, told Sky in Germany on Sunday: “I heard the decision will be made within the next days, so before the end of January.

“Of course, it would be very nice if he decides to join Bayern Munich,” Rummenigge added.

Elsewhere, the name of Gelson Martins continues to be mentioned in connection with Anfield.

According to Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manha, the Sporting winger has attracted interest from Merseyside but Liverpool are only willing to offer €30m for his services.

Martins was touted as an alternative to Mohamed Salah last summer until Salah’s former employers Roma finally relented and agreed a deal with Liverpool.

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