But it appears the RB Leipzig star would prefer to join Manchester City over Jurgen Klopp's side.

The highly-rated Guinea midfielder, whom Leipzig value at £70m, has hailed City alongside Barcelona and Real Madrid.

Keita also claims he was approached by a number of English clubs last summer prior to his £12.75m move from Red Bull Salzburg.

Asked about who had expressed an interest in him, he told German newspaper Welt. "Arsenal, Southampton, Manchester City and Liverpool.

"Although I did not talk with the coach."

Keita enjoyed a successful season in the Bundesliga with Leipzig last term, helping them to a second place finish.

He is now more confident about his abilities but admits he wants to get a few more seasons under his belt before moving on.

He added: "I hope, however, that I have the level in two, three years and could play for one of the very big clubs.

"This includes Barcelona, but it also includes Real Madrid or Manchester City."

Meanwhile, Keita has been hailed by Rene Meulensteen.

The former Manchester United assistant coach believes the in-demand ace has the same qualities as Chelsea star N’Golo Kante.

Meulensteen told the BBC: “He does remind me of Kante.

“He's got unbelievable energy, he's all over the place. He intercepts balls, he starts off attacks.

“He's dynamic, he goes forward, he's just an exciting player to watch that's only going to get better and better.”