Report: Leipzig to resist Liverpool's attempt to sign Keita in January

Liverpool's willingness to pay extra for Naby Keita's expedited arrival at Anfield reportedly won't be enough to convince RB Leipzig to part ways with the midfielder.

The German side is said to be reluctant to let the 22-year-old leave in January and will resist Liverpool's attempt to accelerate the transfer ahead of Keita's planned arrival in England next summer, sources revealed to Michael Kelleher of Sky Sports.

Last summer, Liverpool triggered the €55-million release clause in Keita's contract, making him, at the time, the most expensive signing in club history. It was also understood that Keita would remain with Leipzig for the 2017-18 season before linking up with Liverpool next summer.

Liverpool is fresh off completing the most lucrative transfer in club history following the sale of Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona on Saturday for a reported £142-transfer fee.

However, despite the Premier League club's willingness to offer monetary incentives to expedite the process, officials from the German outfit expect Keita to see out the season in a Leipzig strip.

After impressing during his debut season with eight goals and seven assists, Keita has found the back of the net twice during 13 appearances for RB Leipzig this term.