Liverpool close in on Joel Matip as he rejects new Schalke deal

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Liverpool have been given a huge boost in their chase to sign young Schalke defender Joel Matip after German publication Bild reported that he has turned down a new deal with the club.

Following the club’s recent 3-0 defeat to Watford, manager Jurgen Klopp is ready to turn his attentions to strengthening the defence and has put the 21-year-old centre-back firmly at the top of his wish list.

Matip’s current deal expires at the end of the season, and could agree a deal to head to Anfield for free in the summer, or could move in January for a fee if Schalke don’t want to risk losing him for nothing.

Matip has reportedly turned down a new contract worth €3.5 million-per-season, which would run until 2020, but coach Horst Heldt is still hopeful of convincing him to commit his future.

“Our competition is tough. We have agreed with its consultants that in January makes a decision,” he said.

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