Liverpool SNUB Ozan Kabak as Reds turn down chance to sign Turk for £18m

Liverpool have informed Ozan Kabak that they will not be taking up the option to make his loan move from Schalke permanent for £18m.

Manager Jurgen Klopp told the 21-year old centre back at the weekend as Liverpool instead press ahead with the £40million signing of Ibrahima Konate from Red Bull Leipzig.

Kabak had convivial talks with Klopp who has been encouraging of the young Turkey international, appreciative that he was brought into Liverpool’s line up at a difficult time.

Liverpool have snubbed the chance to sign defender Ozan Kabak on a permanent transfer

Injuries meant Kabak could not play as significant part as he hoped but his performances have still prompted plenty of interest.

Premier League clubs and several in the Bundesliga, including Leipzig, are considering an offer to Schalke who are keen to cash in to generate funds.

Kabak has joined up with the Turkish national team ahead of the European Championships and does not expect to make a decision on his future until the tournament is over.

The 21-year-old arrived in Anfield in January to help rescue Liverpool’s defensive crisis

Kabak starred against Leipzig in the Champions League but has fallen down the pecking order

Liverpool held further talks on Tuesday with Leipzig and France U21 international Konate ahead of paying his buy out clause.

Former Liverpool midfielder Gini Wijnaldum meanwhile is expected to agree a three year contract with Barcelona after his agent held further discussions in Spain on Tuesday. Bayern Munich and Paris Saint-Germain had also shown interest.

Barca are also looking to finalise terms with Manchester City striker Sergio Aguero and his club mate defender Eric Garcia.

Liverpool will not splash out £18m for the Turk and are instead closing in on Ibrahima Konate