Liverpool youngster Luca Stephenson is attracting growing interest from the Championship, with the Reds expected to sanction a permanent transfer this summer for the 22-year-old.
Liverpool could be set to part ways with another academy graduate before the transfer window closes.
According to reports, Luca Stephenson is attracting interest from several Championship clubs, with Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers being amongst the sides monitoring the versatile youngster’s situation.
The Reds are expected to approve a permanent departure should the right offer arrive, with a fee of around ÂŁ700,000 reportedly viewed as the right amount to complete the deal.
Liverpool are also believed to want a sell-on clause included in any agreement, ensuring they retain an interest in the player’s future career wherever that may be.
For Stephenson, the move could provide the next step in his career, as first-team football at his age will prove valuable.
Time For Regular Football
The 22-year-old has long been regarded as one of Liverpool’s more dependable academy products.
Stephenson is capable of operating in midfield, at right-back and in several other positions, which shows the youngster has built a repertoire for being versatile and offers consistency in any position he’s put in, something that has remained with him throughout his time within the club’s youth setup.
However, breaking into Liverpool’s first team has proven difficult, with competition for places at Anfield remaining tough to break into, particularly as the club continues its rebuild under new head coach Andoni Iraola.
As a result, a permanent move away may represent the best opportunity for Stephenson to establish himself at senior level.
Why Liverpool Want A Sell-On Clause
Liverpool’s sell-on clause that goes with any of the negotiations for Stephenson is telling, because while the club are allowing Stephenson to leave, there remains a belief that the youngster has the potential to continue developing in this career.
Sell-on clauses have become an increasingly common part of Liverpool’s strategy when academy players depart, allowing the club to benefit should a player’s value rise in the future, and it also reflects the reality of modern football.
Not every talented academy player can break into Liverpool’s first team, but many go on to enjoy success in their careers away from Anfield.
Summer Of Change Upon Liverpool
Stephenson’s potential departure would continue a busy summer at Anfield, with Liverpool reshaping both the first-team squad and academy structure under the new regime at the club.
A move to the Championship, one of the most highly competitive leagues in Europe, would offer regular football and the chance to continue his development away from the intense competition at Liverpool.
Stephenson’s departure could ultimately prove the right move for all parties involved. Liverpool get to cash in on a player who’s not a regular, and also get to track his progress amid his growing potential with a sell-on clause.
