Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp performed a late U-turn to block Lucas Leiva’s proposed transfer to Galatasaray according to the Mirror.
The report states that the Lions had struck a deal with both Liverpool and the player however, Klopp blocked the move.
Galatasaray subsequently confirmed that they have pulled out of the race to sign Lucas.
“We are no longer pursuing Lucas Leiva, we will continue efforts to sign alternative names instead,” sporting director Levent Nazifoglu was quoted as saying by Turkish-football.com.
The German tactician wants a defensive replacement before allowing Lucas to leave as he is facing a crisis at the back. Despite not being a defender Lucas can play as a makeshift centre-back. Liverpool are facing of a defensive crisis with Mamadou Sakho, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip all out injured.
Lucas provided one assist in 40 appearances for Liverpool in all competitions last season.
