Pundit verdict on Liverpool signing 'replacement' for Naby Keita after source's talks reveal
Paul Robinson has insisted "it would be very difficult" for Liverpool to replace Naby Keita next summer.
Speaking exclusively to Football Insider, the former Spurs and England number one suggested the Reds have learnt their lesson from Georginio Wijnaldum's exit in 2021.
Keita has entered the final 12 months of his contract at Anfield.
Sources have told Football Insider (23 September) that Liverpool have opened talks with the centre-midfielder over a new deal.
The club are understood to be increasingly hopeful of securing an agreement.
When asked by Football Insider if Jurgen Klopp's side were right to be offering the Guinea international a new long-term deal, Robinson said: "It would be very, very difficult to replace Keita.
"Yes, his injury record is far from ideal. Jurgen Klopp would like him on the field far more than he has been.
"When he does play he has a real impact on the side. He brings something different to their midfield. I think he is a top player, I really do.
"I do not think they can afford to lose him on a free. They made that mistake with Wijnaldum. In hindsight, they should not have let that happen.
"Keita is a player that manager likes and that the manager knows. They just need to try and keep him fit."
Keita is currently sidelined because of injury.
He has only featured in the Community Shield this season.