Liverpool players Naby Keita and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain are highly unlikely to be at the club next season, according to journalist James Pearce.
Taking to The Athletic’s Walk On podcast, the Reds reporter shared his views on the possibility of the midfield duo receiving contract extensions.
“Keita and Oxlade: I’d be amazed if either of those are Liverpool players next season – both out of contract,” Pearce said.
“Why would you be rushing to put an extension under their noses at the moment?”
This contradicts other reports, which have suggested that Keita could remain at Anfield if he shows Jurgen Klopp that he is capable of getting a run of games together injury-free.
Keita and Ox likely to leave
Although Pearce doesn’t expect the pair to receive new deals this summer, both players have featured for the side in recent weeks.
Having been out of action for the majority of the campaign with various issues, Keita has come on as a substitute in the last three Premier League matches. The Guinea international even made an appearance in Liverpool’s 3-2 loss to Manchester City in the Carabao Cup.
Moreover, Oxlade-Chamberlain has featured in the Reds’ last five league games, having even started in the most recent three. With Luis Diaz and Diogo Jota out with injury, the 29-year-old is filling in at left-wing, due to his strong versatility.
However, neither player has lit up the Anfield crowd in recent times. Unfortunately, they have spent more time on the medical table than actually on the pitch.
As a result, it’s understandable to see why the club would be happy let the pair go – which now appears to be the case.
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