Borussia Dortmund have reportedly identified Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita as a potential transfer target for 2023.
The 27-year-old's long-term future at Anfield is a current hot topic for debate with less than a year remaining on his existing contract.
Furthermore, the Guinea international international is yet to make an appearance this campaign, his absence notable at a time when Liverpool have sometimes struggled for fit midfielders.
Despite the current situation, the Premier League giants allegedly remain confident about eventually agreeing fresh terms with a player who cost £52.75m in 2018.
However, it was claimed over the weekend that Keita 'wants assurances' over his game time after finding himself in and out of Jurgen Klopp's starting lineup over those four years.
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Keita has made a total of 72 starts and 45 substitute outings in all competitions, just 46 of those starts coming in the Premier League.
As it stands, it is unclear whether Klopp would be willing to accept such demands, but it appears that Keita will not be short of interest in his signature.
According to Bild, via Fichajes, Dortmund are preparing to make a move for Keita in the event that his contractual situation remains the same.
Rather than try to sign Keita in January, it is claimed that acquiring the player on a free transfer for the start of 2023-24 is their target.
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Keita is no stranger to the Bundesliga having scored 14 goals from 58 appearances for RB Leipzig between 2016 and 2018.
Dortmund are currently well stocked for options in that area of the pitch with Emre Can, Salih Ozcan, Jude Bellingham, Mahmoud Dahoud and Giovanni Reyna all in contention for starting roles when fit.
However, Dortmund may be prepared to part ways with Bellingham next summer, aware that they will receive widespread interest in the England international's services.
A recent report has suggested that the German giants may be prepared to accept offers of £83m, providing that a transfer fee is paid up-front.
Darren Plant
