Liverpool end pursuit of 'top target' Keita

Liverpool have accepted that RB Leipzig are unwilling to do business, and will give up on their potentially record-breaking chase of Naby Keita.

Jurgen Klopp felt sure his side would secure the services of the midfield dynamo after their initial £57 million bid, but it was turned down by the Bundesliga side.

Leipzig put up the barriers and made their intentions clear as they rebuffed a second £66 million offer, despite Keita himself being keen on a move to England.

Now Klopp will turn his attention to other targets to bolster his midfield, unless Leipzig decide it would not be productive to keep an unhappy player and accept Liverpool's offer.