Liverpool are expected to block Divock Origi’s move to Newcastle United in the January window, with the Belgian expected to stay put.
According to the Northern Echo, Jurgen Klopp will urge Liverpool to block any potential move for Divock Origi to Premier League side Newcastle United in the January window. The Reds are reportedly prepared to let him leave on a free transfer when the campaign ends.
The Belgian striker might feel he may not have had a fair chance to shine throughout his career at Anfield. Despite playing a key part in the club’s historic Champions League win, when he scored two goals against Barcelona in the quarterfinals and then against Tottenham in the final, Origi might have to find solace elsewhere.
With his contract expiring next summer, there are quite a few opportunities on the horizon. A host of European sides are lining up a move for the Belgian, while Newcastle United are prepared to make a loan offer in the upcoming January window.
Origi can sign a pre-contract agreement with any European side, although he might want to stick around in the Premier League. Other clubs, such as West Ham, are keen on the striker, with David Moyes searching for a viable backup to Michail Antonio.
However, the new ownership over at Newcastle United want him and could be prepared to make a good personal proposal to Origi if he agrees to move. Reports suggest that the Magpies only want a loan move, intending to sign him on a free transfer next summer. Alternatively, they could also make a viable offer to Liverpool in January to tempt the Reds to cash in on him.
However, Klopp is expected to urge his club to block any move away for Origi because he may need him in the second half of the season, especially in January. Liverpool are set to lose star forwards Sadio Mane and Mohamed Salah for the AFCON, leaving them short on options in attack.
Roberto Firmino is also out with a significant injury and might not play all games during that period. Diogo Jota, Takumi Minamino and Origi will have to play an important role during that period. Liverpool will be heavily involved in the Premier League title chase and might miss their AFCON-bound forwards. They will be hoping for important performances from the likes of Origi and other fringe stars.
For this reason, Liverpool are prepared to forgo any small transfer fees they might receive for the Belgian and let him leave the club when his deal expires in the summer. It will still be interesting to see if Newcastle do make an offer, which might prove irresistible for the Merseysiders.