Major development in Nabil Fekir pursuit

LIVERPOOL’s chances of signing Nabil Fekir look to have ended with reports in France claiming a deal won’t be struck.

Posted Monday, July 23, 2018 by Express.co.uk

Fekir had looked set to join Liverpool last month with a move to Anfield almost coming into fruition.

Prior to the World Cup, Fekir underwent a medical with the Reds but concerns over a long-standing knee issue reportedly contributed to a deal falling through.

Liverpool are thought to still be chasing the France midfielder though with Jurgen Klopp still keen to recruit any late additions to his squad.

However, according to tomorrow's edition of L'Equipe, Fekir "should now stay" with the Ligue 1 side.

They say the long-running transfer saga has come to an end and Lyon expect Fekir to be with them when the transfer window shuts.

Le Progres add Fekir may no longer be a priority for the Reds but other clubs could come forward.

Liverpool transfer news: Nabil Fekir looks set to be staying at Lyon

Earlier this week Lyon chairman Jean-Michel Aulas, revealed his confidence in his star player choosing to stay at the Groupama Stadium.

"I do not think that Fekir will leave," Aulas told French broadcaster Canal+.

"He's one of the best in France - and in the world, since he's a world champion. He's a Lyonnais [player], so he'll be there next season.

"Although in football, nothing is ever certain. I haven't had the impression that he absolutely wants to leave.

"He's 90 per cent [certain] going to be at Lyon next season. If he hasn't left by the end of July, he'll stay.

"It's not the size of the offer that will make us change our position on Fekir, but the wishes of Nabil himself."

On Thursday, the official Lyon account tweeted that they plan to honour Fekir's success with a presentation on the pitch before their first match of the new Ligue 1 season against Amiens on August 12.

That's three days after the transfer window slams shut.

Their tweet read: "Nabil Fekir will be presented with the trophy of the World Cup for his return to Groupama Stadium on Sunday 12 August, on the occasion of the 1st day of the Ligue 1 and the reception of Amiens at 3pm!"

Liverpool have already recruited Naby Keita, Xherdan Shaqiri, Fabinho and Alisson this summer.