Liverpool Transfer News: Naby Keita Bid of £70M Reportedly Prepped, Top Rumours

Liverpool reportedly won't be deterred in their pursuit of RB Leipzig midfielder Naby Keita, with the Reds said to be ready to up their bid from £66 million to £70 million for the player. 

As noted by Darren Lewis of the Daily Mirror, the Bundesliga side turned down the initial amount offered for the 22-year-old. But such is Liverpool's desperation to secure the Guinea international, he added they are ready to test RB's resolve again with the increased figure.

"A decision on the Merseysiders' next move will be made early next week," Lewis continued. "But while Klopp and his squad have been here in Hong Kong, sporting director Michael Edwards has remained in England trying to keep the lines of communications open."

Lewis added that Keita has a release clause in his current contract that will become active next summer. That means a potential suitor could purchase him for around £50 million.

However, the Merseyside outfit seem intent on signing him in the current window. Here's a look at why:

It's a deal that is proving challenging for the Reds. As noted by Lewis, Red Bull co-founder Dietrich Mateschitz made it clear the Bundesliga side are not willing to cash in on any of their prized assets this summer:

Even with a potential fee of £70 million, that's understandable. Leipzig are a team seeking to build for a bright future, and in Keita, Emil Forsberg and Timo Werner, they boast some exceptional young talent. After finishing as runners-up in the German top flight last term, they will be competing in this season's UEFA Champions League.

Keita was the man who propelled Leipzig to that impressive finish in his debut season in the Bundesliga, using his power to dominate many a midfield battle. 

As these figures from Squawka Football show, he's a player who loves to run with the ball:

It's an extraordinary amount of money to pay for a footballer who is still relatively unproven at the highest level, though. And if Liverpool see an offer of £70 million turned away next week, surely it's time for the club to explore other options.

Andy Robertson Set for Reds Switch

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According to Dominic King of the Daily Mail, Liverpool are on the cusp of completing a deal for Hull City left-back Andy Robertson.

It's suggested the two clubs have agreed a fee of around £8 million for the Scotland international, who will now have a medical with the Reds ahead of a move.

The 25-year-old will add important depth to the left side of the defence. James Milner did a fine job in the position last term, and he will remain first choice, according to King. However, Liverpool are said to be ready to sell Alberto Moreno, with Sevilla and Napoli keen, making Robertson second choice.

The acquisition is a savvy one, especially in terms of the outlay, per Ed Malyon of The Independent:

Robertson will give Liverpool natural balance on the left flank.

He may have to wait for some cup and Champions League matches to get his chances, but Robertson will feel confident he can offer some serious competition to Milner for his starting spot. Liverpool fans can be content that they have dependable cover in this position at last.