Liverpool and RB Leipzig have confirmed a deal that will see Guinean international Naby Keita move to Anfield in June 2018.
“I am delighted that an agreement has been reached which will allow me to join Liverpool Football Club next summer, when I will become part of a project that excites me greatly,” the midfielder said.
“My commitment to RBL remains absolute for the remainder of my time at the club. I have given my all every time I have worn the shirt – that will be the case until the final whistle, in my final appearance.
“Having my future resolved means I can now focus on helping RBL achieve great things this season. Until I join my new club, next summer, I will remain an interested supporter from a distance.”
Naby Keita Factfile
22 years old
Central midfielder
24 international caps (three goals) for Guinea
Arrived at RB Leipzip in 2016 from sister club RB Salzburg
33 Bundesliga appearances (eight goals)
Two-time champion in Austria
While in Germany he will be able to focus on Leipzig's debut in the UEFA Champions League - after finishing second in last season's Bundesliga, his eyes this week are now firmly on 2018 FIFA World Cup Russia™ qualification.
Guinea face a tough ask to secure a first ever place at the finals, trailing both African Group A leaders Congo DR and Tunisia by six points following defeats in their opening two games. However, with a double-header against fellow bottom side Libya, they have a chance to bridge the some of the gap should results go their way. With just the leaders qualifying, though, it remains a tough ask.