Liverpool transfer news: Naby Keita reveals what Jurgen Klopp told him to turn down Barcelona and Bayern Munich

Sign up to Miguel Delaney’s Reading the Game newsletter sent straight to your inbox for free

Sign up to Miguel’s Delaney’s free weekly newsletter

Please enter a valid email address

Please enter a valid email address

SIGN UP

I would like to be emailed about offers, events and updates from The Independent. Read our privacy policy

New Liverpool signing Naby Keita was so impressed by Jurgen Klopp that he rejected moves to European powerhouses Bayern Munich and Barcelona.

Liverpool agreed to sign Keita for £52m last year, but the move only went through this summer.

The midfielder attracted a number of admirers for his performances for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, with Bayern and Barcelona at one point rivalling Liverpool for his signature.

But Keita has revealed that the prospect of working with Klopp won him over.

“It's true to say that there were other teams involved like the ones you mentioned,” Keita said.

“But a big part of my decision was the role of the coach. We had good conversations a year ago. The words he spoke to me about this project really convinced me.

“I could see how the club was developing. I saw how the team was evolving and throughout last season I really keen to get here, especially having seen how well they were doing.

“We have got quality in the midfield and hopefully I can add to that quality and contribute in my own way. I have watched a lot of Premier League football and from being here I know we have got enough quality in our squad.

“It is all about having the mindset and the desire to want it enough and to fight for it enough. That desire and belief goes a long way.”

For Simon Hughes’ full interview with Keita, click here.