Liverpool reward key defender with contract extension

Liverpool have reportedly rewarded defender Joel Matip with a year's extension on his existing deal which was due to expire at the end of the season.

The Cameroon international has formed a tremendous partnership with Virgil van Dijk at the heart of the defence and the Reds have now taken the step to prolong his stay with the club.

According to The Athletic, the Reds have triggered an extension clause available in the contract of the former Schalke 04 man and the centre-back is now tied to the club until the summer of 2021.

Meanwhile, the Merseyside giants are in discussions over a new deal for James Milner, who has just 11 months remaining on his existing contract with the Champions League holders.

Milner is presently on a £125,000-a-week package at the club and reports suggest that he would have to take a paycut in order to extend his Reds stay beyond the current campaign.

Liverpool are currently at the top of the Premier League standings with the perfect tally of 12 points after the opening four games. They are scheduled to face Newcastle United at Anfield this weekend.