Liverpool star Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain tipped to leave on free transfer after confirmed news - pundit
Alan Hutton has claimed Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain could run down his contract at Liverpool to "open up his options" for a move next summer.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Premier League right-back said clubs may not be willing to pay for the 28-year-old this summer due to his recent injury.
Oxlade-Chamberlain has entered the final 12 months of his contract at Anfield.
The midfielder picked up an injury in the Reds' pre-season friendly against Crystal Palace in July.
Speaking to club media (29 July), Jurgen Klopp confirmed that the 28-year-old suffered a "serious hamstring injury".
The Reds boss said it will be a while before the former England international will be able to return to training.
When asked if he thought Oxlade-Chamberlain could run down his contract and leave for free next summer, Hutton told Football Insider: "It’s definitely an option.
"If it’s not happened by now then maybe that’s the way he’s thinking. I think he’s too good a player to be sitting for that length of time and not play. He’s still got a lot to give, he’s still a decent age.
"The one problem is obviously the injury list. Can he stay fit enough to play a full season? If he was to go, at this moment in time, would someone be willing to spend £25million, do they know exactly what they’re getting?
"I believe he’s still a top quality player but maybe if he does stay for that extra year and try to play as many minutes and then leave on a free, it probably opens up his options in terms of clubs and who would be willing to take him. It’s not so much of a risk then. Obviously wages will be high but you don’t have to pay a substantial fee for him."