Use your head like Sadio and subscribe to the Liverpool FC newsletter Sign me up Thank you for subscribing We have more newsletters Show me See our privacy notice Invalid Email

Besiktas have confirmed that Liverpool FC have shelved plans to off-load Lucas Leiva before the transfer window shuts.

The Brazilian midfielder was expected to leave the Reds after falling down the pecking order at Anfield and the Turkish outfit believed they were on the brink of agreeing a season-long loan deal.

However, a foot injury to captain Jordan Henderson led to Lucas earning a recall for Monday night’s 0-0 draw with Arsenal and after the 28-year-old delivered an impressive performance in the capital manager Brendan Rodgers said he planned to keep him for the season ahead.

Besiktas president Fikret Orman said: “Liverpool do not want him to go. The transfer can only go ahead with their say so there is nothing we can do right now.”

Besiktas are desperate for midfield reinforcements after losing Tolgay Arslan and Veli Kavlak to injury.

Lucas, who has two years to run on his existing contract, travelled back to Merseyside with the Liverpool squad following Monday’s game in London and has trained at Melwood as preparations begin for Saturday’s game against West Ham at Anfield.