Schalke's general manager Horst Heldt refuses to give up on keeping Joel Matip.

Liverpool boss Jurgen Klopp is a big fan of the defender - dating back to his days at Schalke's rivals, Borussia Dortmund - and the Reds are confident that Matip will be lining up for them next season.

Matip's agent is set to meet with Schalke officials in the coming days and Heldt said: “We have agreed to an appointment [with the player's advisor] which will take place soon.

“I remain in good spirits and I hope that we can convince Joel to stay at Schalke."