Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has confirmed midfielder Emre Can will miss the rest of the 2017-18 season. The Germany international has been sidelined with a back problem recently. Amid rumours he was set to miss the rest of the campaign, Klopp was asked by Sky Sports whether Can's term was over.
"Yes," was the response of the Liverpool boss. "If you lose three players (Can, Joel Matip and Adam Lallana) in a week that is of course not good." The layoff means Can may have played his last game for the club as his contract expires at the end of the season.
Juventus are the side linked to the player most frequently. Speaking to Tuttosport on Saturday chief executive Giuseppe Marotta said he would like to get the deal wrapped up soon to prevent any chase becoming a "soap opera."
According to reports, Can is now battling to make this summer's FIFA World Cup, where he was expected to be part of a Germany squad seeking to defend their crown.
More immediately, Can's absence will be a big blow for the Reds as they seek to finish the 2017-18 campaign on a high.
Liverpool are in excellent position to challenge for the UEFA Champions League, having won 3-0 against Manchester City in the first leg of their quarter-final tie. The Reds will be looking to complete the job at the Etihad Stadium on Tuesday.
Can has been an important part of the team's run to this stage and has helped Liverpool almost certainly secure a spot in the top four of the Premier League, almost assuring Champions League qualification for next season.
At his best, the midfielder can be tough to cope with; he is powerful, can shift through the gears and uses the ball well. Without him and Lallana, it also leaves Klopp's side a little short in midfield.
However, if Can has played his last game for the club, it's unlikely his departure will be lamented for too long. Plenty at Anfield are excited about the impending arrival of midfielder Naby Keita from RB Leipzig in the summer.
