Xherdan Shaqiri has told friends he intends to quit Liverpool next summer, reports claim.
The Swiss star has almost been forgotten about this season, after being sidelined with a calf tear sustained in training.
However he is closing in on a return to full fitness, giving Jurgen Klopp another attacking option ahead of a gruelling stretch of fixtures.
According to Football Insider, Shaqiri is unhappy at Anfield and has told close friends he wants to leave the club next summer.
He recognises that he has little chance of starting ahead of both Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane and therefore wants to move onto a new challenge.
Shaqiri has played just two times in the Premier League season, but could return to the bench for next weekend’s trip to Crystal Palace.
In a recent interview with Schweizer Illustrierte, Shaqiri couldn’t hide his frustration at a lack of playing time.
“Of course I’m dissatisfied that I do not play more often,” he said.
“If that is not the reaction of a pro, he’s in the wrong job. He (Klopp) cannot personally discuss the role of each player, that’s normal.
“We have a big, talented squad, and many have to wait for their chance.
“I have never had a problem with the coach. He knows that I am ready.”
Despite his eagerness to play, Shaqiri cited his Champions League winners medal from last season as a reason why he does not regret making the move to Merseyside.
“Not for a second have I regretted the move to Liverpool,” he added.
“Many wrote me off in Stoke, but who can claim to have switched directly from a relegated side to a Champions League winner?
“I was in the starting XI in the return leg of the Champions League semi-final against Barcelona, which will go down in club history.
“And because of my two goals to defeat everlasting rival Manchester United, they still often call me a legend.
“Apart from the fact that I would like to play more, I’m happy in Liverpool. I have a certain status in the team because I am one of the more experienced players. I think I’m one of the leaders.”
