Jurgen Klopp gave updates on the futures on two experienced Liverpool players as he spoke to the media on Friday ahead of this weekend’s Premier League clash with Bournemouth.
First, reacting to rumours that Daniel Sturridge could leave Anfield for West Ham United in January, Klopp told The Guardian: “There is absolutely no thought or idea to sell any player from the first team squad.
“I don’t think it would make sense. Unfortunately Daniel is not in training now and that is what I am more concerned about than any transfer rumours, but I am prepared for everything you could ask me in January.”
SEE ALSO:
Steven Gerrard Liverpool return latest: Job opens up for Reds legend as coach quits after four years
Two of Man Utd’s best ever Premier League players were rejected by Liverpool, former Reds boss explains why
(Video) Mesut Ozil BT Sports fail: Arsenal ace can’t replicate Liverpool wondergoal, highlighting major weakness in his game
Sturridge’s absence from training is due to a calf injury, which will keep him out of the trip to Bournemouth.
However, Klopp makes it clear that the former Chelsea frontman remains in his first-team plans.
The same cannot be said for French defender Mamadou Sakho, though.
On the subject of Sakho, Klopp’s stance is very different.
He is NOT a first-team player, therefore he IS available for transfer.
Klopp, again quoted by The Guardian, added: “Now you know, I said it: he is not in these plans for the first team. The first-team squad is here [at the training ground].
“Do you really think I would have said Sakho will not be sold in winter? Nothing changed. Once again this actual first-team squad is in this dressing room, from this point of view nobody will be sold.”
Sakho has been training with Liverpool’s U23 side since September, per The Guardian, who say that Nice, West Bromwich Albion and various clubs in Italy have been linked with the 26-year-old, who is under contract at Anfield until June 2020.
According to the Daily Star‘s breakdown of Liverpool FC wages, Sakho is currently on £75,000 per week, while Sturridge earns £120,000.