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Newcastle United opted against renewing the German’s contract earlier this year. Karius spent two seasons at St James’ Park, famously making his debut in the Carabao Cup final against Manchester United.

He was also drafted in at Arsenal in February - a game the Magpies lost 4-0. Reports suggested he wanted to be closer to his young family in Italy, where his TV presenter and model wife, Diletta Leotta, is from.

Other outlets claimed Barcelona were eyeing up a shock move following Marc-Andre ter Stegen’s season-ending injury. However, that speculation has been put to bed, with the Catalans persuading former Arsenal goalkeeper Wojciech Szczesny to come out of retirement.

Karius’ career is now at a crossroads at 31, six years after his infamous Champions League final appearance for Liverpool. The ex-Toon goalie admitted his situation is “not easy” but he remains active every day hoping for the call.

“This is certainly not an easy situation at the moment,” Karius told Sky Deutschland. “Being without a club as a player is one of the worst things, but I take it relatively calmly because I’ve had a lot of ups and downs in my career. 

“So I can deal with the situation quite well, even if I would of course wish it were different. You have to be realistic. I had a few offers in the summer that didn’t appeal to me, which is why I made the decision to reject them and wait.

“Therefore, it is currently an option that the career does not continue. However, I keep it open, train every day, keep myself fit and could theoretically start somewhere straight away. Everything is still possible.”