Liverpool face major blow with Schalke ace Leon Goretzka set to be offered new contract
The Bundesliga star is out of contract with the German side at the end of the season and will be available on a free transfer
LIVERPOOL are facing a huge blow in their pursuit to sign midfield ace Leon Goretzka.
The 22-year-old has attracted a wide range of interest, but Schalke are hoping to pin him down with a lucrative new contract offer.
The German club have offered the 22-year-old a new contract as his current deal expires at the end of the season, according to Bild.
He will be free to discuss terms with new clubs in January and would be available on a free transfer.
The 22-year-old has attracted interest from a host of Europe's biggest clubs, including Premier League giants Manchester United, Chelsea and Manchester City.
Juventus, Barcelona and Bayern Munich are also set to scramble for the former Bochum player's signature.
Liverpool are expected to lose Philippe Coutinho to Barcelona in January and Goretzka would fill the void left by the Brazilian.
Munich have reportedly drafted a contract offer to hand the Germany international in January.
However, he was quick to dismiss claims earlier this summer. He said: "Honestly, it is really getting on my nerves.
"I can see why it interests people but I can only repeat once again, there's nothing new to report with Munich.
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"I have clearly denied there is an agreement in place - with any club. I can promise you this is the case."
Goretzka shot to prominence after he established himself as one of the Bundesliga's top talents during the 2013/14 campaign.
The 22-year-old will be looking to follow in the footsteps of Julian Draxler and Leroy Sane - who also kicked off their successful careers at the Veltins-Arena.
He has already netted 11 times in 94 appearances for Schlake.
