John Aldridge believes it is solely up to Gini Wijnaldum to decide on his long-term future in the Reds shirt as speculation has been rife since this summer over the Holland international midfielder sealing an exit from Anfield.
Interest in signing the 29-year-old has been widespread, with the likes of FC Barcelona and Inter Milan queuing up to enquire about the Dutchman’s availability on a free transfer in the summer of 2021.
However, Liverpool FC boss Jurgen Klopp, as well as the player, have both refused to be publicly drawn into media discussions over a potential new deal being tabled in front of the ex-Newcastle United man should he choose to commit his future towards the Merseyside outfit.
Aldridge, meanwhile, is of the opinion that the ball lies in Wijnaldum’s court over the decision to extend his stay at Anfield or seek an exit come next summer, with the former Irish international adding that should the Dutchman want to leave Jurgen Klopp’s side, he would not be subject to resistance from the club’s board.
“You don’t know what is going on behind the scenes with Gini Wijnaldum.”, Aldridge said to the Liverpool Echo.
“Agents are hard to deal with. Gini is in an ideal position now. His contract is running out. He’s going to be free.
“He still loves Liverpool, I’m sure. But there are going to be reasons behind it. Only he knows. If Gini wants to go, he’ll go. It’s as simple as that.
“It’s all in Gini’s court. Will the club push the boat out and give him what he wants? I don’t know. We’ll have to watch this space and trust the manager.
“But, if he wants to go, he’ll probably go.”
