Liverpool have been denied entry into Leipzig for their Champions League round of 16 first leg.

The six-time European Cup winners are due to play German side RB Leipzig in the first knockout stage, with the first game taking place away at the Red Bull Arena on 16 February.

But it’s now been confirmed that because of the ongoing COVID-19 variant and subsequent ban on travelling, the Reds were not granted a special exemption and will not be able to make the trip.The game is to be played at a neutral venue and it is up to Leipzig to find that location, as well as cover the costs.

There has been a report from the Daily Mail claiming that the game could be played in London and a stadium in the capital has already been contacted.

With all flights from the United Kingdom to Germany banned until February 17, there is also the option of a one-off tie being played.

Premier League champions Liverpool topped Group C with 13 points, while Leipzig qualified for the knockout phase with a crucial 3-2 win over Manchester United in the final game in Group D.