Liverpool Target Nabil Fekir Cools Transfer Speculation

This seems to be part of the usual dance that goes whenever a big club pursues a transfer target on the cusp of the window, but Liverpool target Nabil Fekir has poured cold water on any speculation that he will sign for the Reds once silly season gets underway.

Prior to the Champions League final, a number of observers close to the club had signaled Liverpool’s intention to formally make an approach to Lyon for Fekir’s services. Coupled with the player’s coy remarks when asked about his future, there was growing suspicion that a deal was all but completed, despite some saner voice cautioning that this would not be the case.

Now, the player himself has chimed in with specific reference to Liverpool.

“I’m not close to Liverpool,” said Fekir to French outfit Telefoot. “It’s true that there are discussions with several clubs. As I said, I will take the time to think.”

“He (Jean-Michel Aulas, Lyon president) knows my desires, and we’ll talk about all of this in the next few days.”

If Liverpool want a clear path to Fekir’s services, they will likely try to do business before the World Cup officially opens, since the midfielder is expected to play a role in France’s campaign. Lyon, for their part, outwardly appear optimistic that Fekir might still remain with the club. All signs point, however, towards another protracted transfer tussle.