Jurgen Klopp admits Gini Wijnaldum has yet to tell Liverpool whether he wants to stay beyond the end of the season - as he praised the midfielder as an Anfield legend.
Wijnaldum, who has been with the Reds since 2016, is out of contract in the summer with talks over a new deal having long reached an impasse.
As it stands, the Holland international is poised to make his last appearance for the club in Sunday's final Premier League match of the season at home to Crystal Palace.
Bayern Munich have emerged as potential suitors for the 30-year-old with Barcelona having been long-time admirers.
But while paying a heartfelt tribute to Wijnaldum, Klopp has revealed there remains a chance the player could yet extend his Liverpool commitment.
"On the playing staff we have a hugely important player who is out of contract with us," said the Reds boss.
"It is hard to write because you never say never and at the time of writing this, he has not confirmed his intentions for next season.
"But I must recognise him just in case this is his Anfield farewell.
"Gini Wijnaldum. An LFC legend now and forever. What this person - this wonderful, joyful, selfless person - has done for our team and club I cannot sum up in words in truth because my English is not good enough."
Writing in the official Liverpool FC matchday programme, Klopp added: "He is an architect of our success. We have built this Liverpool on his legs, lungs, brain and his huge, beautiful heart.
"If - and it is still is if - he goes, he does so knowing we as his team-mates are eternally grateful for having this special human being come into our lives.
"I love him and he will always be family."
