Liverpool in contract ‘stalemate’ with Georginio Wijnaldum amid Barcelona free transfer interest and talks ongoing
LIVERPOOL midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum is reportedly edging closer to an Anfield exit with contract talks said to have reached a stalemate.
The 30-year-old is free to talk to foreign clubs about a free transfer at the end of the season having entered the last six months of his deal on Merseyside.
Barcelona are known to be long-term admirers of the Holland international, with boss Ronald Koeman desperate to be reunited with him at the Nou Camp.
It was claimed last month that the ex-Newcastle ace asked the Reds for more time before deciding on his future amid interest from the Blaugrana.
And now have claimed that negotiations between the club and the player have reached a stalemate.
They state that the Premier League and Champions League winner has been presented with a new offer, but he is yet to sign it.
The report then adds that Wijnaldum is keen to remain at Liverpool, but wants his wages to reflect his importance in the team, and compare with the club's top earners.
Should no breakthrough be made, Liverpool could decide to cash in on the former PSV star who has appeared in all 17 top-flight games this term.
Koeman signalled his intention to nab the player in November when he suggested that a future deal could be on the cards.
Speaking to Sport, he said: "He’s very good.
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“But he’s playing for Liverpool. He could be an option in the future. I can’t say more.”
Inter Milan are also said to be keen on landing Wijnaldum as Antonio Conte looks to lure another player from England to Italy.
And it has even been claimed that Liverpool are eyeing up a replacement for the midfielder having tracked the development of Brighton's Yves Bissouma.
ESPN have claimed that Jurgen Klopp is keeping tabs on the player who could cost in the region of £30million.