Liverpool beat Barcelona to signing of Naby Keita because they were ‘more determined’, claims RB Leipzig director
Oliver Mintzlaff reveals both parties were interested in signing
LIVERPOOL signed Naby Keita just ahead of Barcelona because they were "more determined", RB Leipzig's director has claimed.
After failing to land the defensive midfielder in the summer, the Reds agreed a deal which will see him move to Anfield at the end of the season.
And Oliver Mintzlaff revealed Barcelona were also interested in signing the Guinea international — but showed less determination than Liverpool.
He told Sport Bild: "Barcelona enquired about the signing of Naby Keita.
"But it seems they were not as driven as Liverpool."
After Keita's move to Anfield fell through, his form for RB Leipzig dipped dramatically.
And Mintzlaff admitted that securing the transfer in the future would be the best for all parties.
He added: "We wanted our focus to be 250 per cent on our triple burden this season, but it had become difficult for Naby.
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"That way, we found a solution which gave the player back his security.
"Also, we were able to negotiate for a much higher transfer fee."
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Keita, 22, is considered one of the best players on the planet in the defensive midfield role.
And Liverpool fans will be excited to see him playing at Anfield next season.
One major question mark is over his discipline, with Keita having already picked up three red cards this term.