Liverpool news: Big-name exit may be on cards after Luis Diaz confession – pundit
Alex McLeish has suggested Roberto Firmino may want to leave Liverpool this summer in pursuit of more regular game time.
The former Scotland boss, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 30-year-old’s future is in his own hands, with his current terms running until next summer.
Football Insider revealed back in February that Liverpool plan to offer Firmino a contract extension despite the form of Diogo Jota and arrival of Luis Diaz.
As quoted by the Liverpool Echo, Jurgen Klopp admitted Diaz’s signing has meant moving Sadio Mane into a centre-forward position on occasion, therefore increasing competition for Firmino.
McLeish insisted the Brazilian is still “very integral” to the Reds but questioned whether he would be happy playing a squad role moving forward.
McLeish told Football Insider’s Russell Edge: “I think he’s still making an impact. You see him in games coming on and getting a couple of goals and assists. He’s still, I think, very integral to their success this season.
“Like everybody else, he will want to maybe play more football at the end. Who knows, maybe it suits him, the way it is just now.
“One thing’s for sure, Liverpool are a great club and will do the right thing by their players.
“They will do whatever Firmino wants to do, I would think.
“Maybe keep him on and keep doing his cameo. Or does the guy want to play more football? I think that would be in Firmino’s hands.”
As well as Firmino, Liverpool are also looking to tie Mane and Mohamed Salah down to new contracts.
The trio are all out of contract next summer.
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