There is a lot of focus on potential new players who may join the Reds this month and in the summer. But what about those Liverpool players whose contract expires between 2022 and 2023 and who will be given renewal?
There is no disputing that the club faces a crucial year to address the squad’s flaws. And the solution is neither quick nor inexpensive.
All eyes are on the midfield, where four players do not currently have contracts that would keep them at Anfield past 2022–2023.
With Jurgen Klopp’s team being scrutinized more than ever, many issues still need to be resolved in the following weeks and months.
Matip is one of the players who is given a renewal. And the offer will be such that he will very likely renew.
Liverpool players who are running out of contract
But some players are out of the deal and haven’t been given a renewal.
The players whose current contracts expire in the summer are listed below.
Five players for Liverpool are nearing the end of their contracts: James Milner, Roberto Firmino, Naby Keita, Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain, and Adrian.
Jurgen Klopp bought three of the five players. While Brendan Rodgers brought in Roberto Firmino and James Milner.
Firmino has made 341 appearances, and Milner 300. But it is the latter two who have seen the most action from the boss over the course of his whole management career.
It stands in stark contrast to the careers of Keita and Oxlade-Chamberlain. Oxlade’s last few seasons at Anfield were defined mainly by injury.
There is also Arthur’s loan agreement. It will expire at the end of the current campaign and is highly unlikely to be renewed.
Who will stay?
Although there have been some reservations about Firmino staying into the summer due to interest from other clubs, negotiations have begun with the 31-year-old and his agents.
Recently, Klopp expressed his desire for his No. 9 to stay with the team, saying:
“We have talks with Bobby, and I can say, from my point of view, I want him, definitely, to stay.”
It is not too dissimilar from Firmino’s August statements:
“I want to be here, happy here. And that’s all I can say – I want to stay.”
There is certainly a willingness to continue until 2023. But whether personal terms and the duration of the new contract can be agreed upon will be critical.
The 37-year-old Milner would never be given more than a one-year contract. But as he has previously spent time at the academy earning his coaching badges, a change in position might be in the works.
It’s no secret that Milner is highly valued by Klopp in his team. But no one is surprised that the midfield needs to be completely revamped.
After six years, Oxlade-Chamberlain will likely go on. And Keita might be given the rest of the season to show he still has something to offer.
Liverpool might keep at least one midfielder if they lose three in the summer when the position already requires additions.
They may be happy to extend their contract with the Spaniard because it might be challenging to find another qualified candidate. And as for Adrian, if he is pleased to continue serving as the club’s backup goalkeeper.
