Liverpool chiefs optimistic about striking one deal with contract talks progressing well

Origi has a year remaining on his current deal but Reds boss Jurgen Klopp is keen to keep the Belgian at Anfield.

The striker scored some crucial goals for Liverpool last season, including a fine effort as the Reds beat Tottenham in the Champions League final.

Origi was not Klopp’s first choice in Liverpool’s attack though with Mohamed Salah, Roberto Firmino and Sadio Mane all favoured ahead of the 24-year-old.

That led to fears that Origi could opt for a move away from Merseyside this summer.

But ESPN claim the forward signalled his desire to play more of a part this season during his return to pre-season training.

It’s claimed that contract talks have been progressing well with Origi potentially set to be more involved after a busy international summer for Salah, Firmino and Mane.

And Belgian journalist Kristof Terreur believes Origi has been promised more minutes by Klopp.

“They [Liverpool] already offered him [Origi] a new contract before the Champions League final,” Terreur told the Sky Sports Transfer Talk podcast.

“There were some talks with his agent after the final.

“They were advanced negotiations but the player didn’t make his decision yet. He’s still on holiday.

“He has been promised a more advanced role now Sturridge has left.

“He’s basically the back-up for Mane, Salah and Firmino. He’s basically the first back-up for them.

“They’ve offered him good money.

“I think the moment the cards are on the table right now that he might sign a new deal for four or five years.”

Origi could be involved as Liverpool get their pre-season campaign underway this week.

The Premier League giants travel to Tranmere on Thursday evening (7.30pm).

source: express.co.uk