Rio Ferdinand says he cannot understand why Gini Wijnaldum is yet to agree a new contract at Liverpool.
The midfielder netted in the Reds' 4-0 win over Wolves at the weekend but, with his contract expiring at the end of the season, he has been heavily linked with a move to Barcelona.
His contract situation means he is able to speak to teams outside of England about a free transfer in the summer from January 1, despite Jurgen Klopp making it clear he would like to keep the Dutchman at Anfield.
Speaking on his Five YouTube channel, Ferdinand said Liverpool's form in the face of injuries would worry him if he was a title rival.
The former Manchester United and England defender also argued that the Reds' injuries make Wijnaldum a key player, which means he cannot understand the hold-up in a potential new contract.
"Fans are back in the place and Liverpool entertain them - 4-0 against a very, very good Wolves team.
"Wow, as much as Liverpool have injuries, with three of their first-choice defence out injured, these boys are making it look easy, like there's nothing wrong.
"For me, that worries me if I'm another team vying for the league. I think Liverpool have a fantastic midfield and forward line and the boys that have stepped in are producing the goods, which is great to see.
"Wijnaldum is an integral player now, considering the injuries they've got, and I can't understand why they haven't got him tied down to a new deal.
"He plays in any one of the three midfield positions - holding, box-to-box and the 10, which he does great for the Netherlands.
"He's a huge player."
Ferdinand added: "With injuries like they are, if Liverpool are still within six or seven points at the turn of the year, you can't bet on anyone else to win the league."
