It's looking increasingly likely that Emre Can will not be signing a new deal at Liverpool.
The Germany international moved to Anfield in 2014 for a dirt-cheap £9.75 million (€12 million) and has grown to become a hugely important player for Jurgen Klopp.
However, his contract comes to an end this season and negotiations over a new deal have hit a stumbling block, with the Daily Mail's Dominic King reporting that he is now 'almost certain' to leave for a fee, with negotiations 'reaching deadlock'.
And a key factor in why talks between both camps have not been progressing well is because Can and his representatives want a release clause inserting in any new deal - something Liverpool are strongly against given that it weakens their position in terms of holding out for big money if the former Bayer Leverkusen is to leave.
Image: PA
Liverpool's other talisman Philippe Coutinho, who wanted to leave for Barcelona but Liverpool refused to budge, signed a new deal in January but no release clause was included - and the Reds do not wish to make an exception for Can.
But as it stands, that means they will lose one of their prize assets for absolute nothing. In precisely 58 days time when January rolls around, he will be free to speak to other clubs and is able to put pen to paper on a pre-contract.
The 23-year old isn't short of admirers. Bayern Munich, the club where Can spent time at in the youth system before making seven appearances for the first-team, are said to be monitoring the situation of their former player.
Image: PA
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In addition, Juventus' interest in the versatile player is no secret and they are likely favourites to land him.
Juventus General Manager Beppe Marotta has already confirmed his interest in Can and is waiting in the wings.
"Can's contract expires in June, which means we can negotiate in January," he told Mediaset.
"I cannot hide how much I like him, but he's a Liverpool player. All we can do is admire him."
And just last month, Can said it was an "honour" to be linked with the Bianconeri, though he reiterated that he's concentrated on the current season.
"It's always an honour to receive an offer from such a renowned club, but currently I am only focused on the season with Liverpool," he told Kicker.
"My agent takes care of the rest. The Premier League is just a really cool league, the most interesting in the world, but you must respect other big clubs and leagues."
Featured Image Credit:Topics: Liverpool, Anfield, Bayer Leverkusen, Emre Can, Juventus, Bayern Munich