Noel Whelan says Liverpool must keep Divock Origi throughout January

Former Premier League striker Noel Whelan believes Liverpool cannot afford to let Divock Origi leave in the January transfer window.

This comes following reported interest from Serie A clubs AC Milan and Atalanta in taking the 26-year-old ace.

Having recently come to the fore with some important goals – including the winner in the San Siro – Origi once again appears to be a crucial part of Jurgen Klopp’s squad.

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan said that the Reds must keep the enigmatic frontman.

I’m not sure whether they can afford to let him go in January, maybe in the summer. I’ve seen the way Jurgen Klopp goes on about him as a person, as a character, as a footballer. There’s obviously great mutual respect there. I think Klopp realises how much he is going to need Origi this season, especially during the African Cup of Nations. It’s a crucial time. It’s probably why he’s been given that extra bit of game time – just to ease him into match sharpness. He’ll be an integral part of that front three with Sadio Mane and Mo Salah missing.

So far this season Origi has scored five times and provided two assists in 10 appearances for Klopp’s side across all competitions.

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Valued at £10.8million (Transfermarkt), the club are in a tricky situation with the Belgian.

Whilst cashing in would make sense from a financial perspective, Liverpool cannot afford to lose another attacking option next month.

Recent form would suggest the striker is worthy of a new deal, however, previous struggles may rule that out.

At present it appears far more likely Origi will stay until the end of the season and leave next summer.