Emre Can is edging closer to wrapping up a transfer saga that has proved a distracting sub-story to an otherwise joyous season for Liverpool.
The German is set to join Juventus on a free transfer when his current contract expires in the summer, with negotiations over a new deal having broken down months ago.
Liverpool’s apparent refusal to insert Can’s desired release clause in any new contract is believed to be a key factor in his decision to depart.
That being said, his wish to leave the club remains difficult to comprehend as the Reds prepare for a Champions League final and a Premier League title challenge in 2018/2019.
A deal is now close to completion, with a contract lasting until 2023 and worth €5million Euros having been agreed, according to Calciomercata’s Fabrizio Romano.
The report also adds the transfer will be officially announced after the season finishes out of respect for Liverpool’s European preparations.
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Can hasn’t featured for Liverpool since being substituted with a back injury in the first half of March’s 5-0 win over Watford at Anfield.
He also remains behind schedule in his fight to be fit for the final in Kiev at the end of the month, with Monday’s scan having returned inconclusive results.
Regardless of his imminent departure, to have him available against Zinedine Zidane’s men would be a significant boost in light of Jurgen Klopp’s current shortage of options from the bench.