Jurgen Klopp has been urged by John Aldridge to snub contract rebel Emre Can in his Champions League final plans as the midfielder’s “heart isn’t at Liverpool”.
Despite several efforts by the Reds to resolve an issue which has dragged on throughout the 2017-18 campaign, no agreement has been reached with a versatile performer.
As a result, Germany international Can continues to head towards free agency.
A move to Juventus has been mooted, with those in Turin “optimistic” regarding their chances of doing a deal, but the matter remains one of uncertainty and frustration for those at Anfield.
Taking that into account, and with the 24-year-old having only recently returned from a back problem, Aldridge feels Liverpool should be placing their trust in others when they face Real Madrid in Kiev.
The former Reds striker told the Liverpool Echo: “I’m not sure I want Emre Can in the squad for the Champions League final on Saturday because his heart isn’t at Liverpool.
“It’s a tricky one for the manager. Do you use his experience now he’s fit or do you turn to people whose future is at the club?
“A lot of fans wouldn’t want Can on the bench. The club has had a custard pie from him and his agent.
“He’s been part of the journey to this final but he certainly doesn’t deserve to start against Real Madrid. Why does he want to leave? Money. Is the Italian league better? No. Juventus are a huge club but Liverpool have won the Champions League more times than them.
“I would question the advice he’s been getting but if he wants to go this summer then go.”
Klopp has been questioned again about Can’s future ahead of an eagerly-anticipated clash with Madrid.
He claims to have “no clue” as to whether a fellow countryman will be remaining on Merseyside, with his full focus at present locked on a meeting with Zinedine Zidane’s reigning European champions.