It would be a big surprise if Gini Wijnaldum remains a Liverpool player beyond this season, according to journalist James Pearce.

The Lowdown: Final season at Liverpool?

The Dutchman has been a fantastic servant for the Reds since arriving in 2016, proving to be a key figure in the middle of the park and being hailed as 'incredible' by compatriot and former Liverpool winger Ryan Babel.

With Wijnaldum's contract expiring at the end of the season, constant speculation has linked him with a move away from Liverpool. The fact that the 30-year-old hasn't yet signed a new deal at Anfield seems to speak volumes about where he sees his future, with Barcelona the front-runners for his signature amid a potential reunion with former national team coach Ronald Koeman.

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The Latest: Pearce provides key update

Speaking in a Q&A for The Athletic on Sunday, Pearce admitted that he fully expects Wijnaldum to be elsewhere come the start of next season, saying:

"Last I heard he was still weighing up various options, but I'd be amazed if he ended up staying out. He would bank a massive signing on fee as a free agent."

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The Verdict: A wonderful servant

Wijnaldum looks nailed-on to leave Liverpool, but he should always be remembered as a legendary modern-day figure at Anfield, winning both the Premier League and Champions League.

He might not have made as many headlines as the likes of Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mane and Roberto Firmino, to name just a few, but he has been vital to Liverpool's success. His goal on a tense final day afternoon against Middlesbrough four years ago proved the catalyst for Champions League qualification, and who can forget his double against Barcelona on that night at Anfield in 2019.

Wijnaldum has made 235 appearances in just five seasons, speaking volumes about his consistency and fitness levels, and he will be a big miss should he move on, knitting things together in midfield in an understated manner.

In other news, a Premier League player has been linked with a surprise move to Liverpool. Find out who it is here.