Emre Can’s contract talks with Liverpool have reached an impasse because the midfielder’s representatives want a release clause inserted in any new deal.

Liverpool are reluctant to agree to the request, which is why there has been little progress during discussions that have gone on for more than a year, during which Can has entered the final 12 months of his existing deal.

The Anfield club exploited a £9.75 million release clause when signing Can from Bayer Leverkusen in 2014 and were aware of the potential for the player’s agents, International Soccer Management, to seek one in the future. Jürgen Klopp has described the situation as “not too cool”, but remains philosophical given that Can’s commitment and form have not suffered this season.

Liverpool resolved