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It’s hard to keep up with everything that’s happening at Liverpool right now.
These past few days alone have been a whirlwind, with Andoni Iraola landing on Merseyside on Thursday as he prepares to sign a two-year deal to become the club’s new head coach.
Bournemouth, meanwhile, have already moved on quickly by confirming Marco Rose as their replacement, and Iraola could be officially unveiled at Anfield as soon as this week.
Amid all that movement at the top, there’s also plenty going on behind the scenes in terms of squad reshaping. Liverpool midfielder Luca Stephenson is expected to depart the club this summer.
The 22-year-old is expected to leave on a permanent basis this summer after two productive seasons out on loan with Dundee United in the Scottish Premiership.
Stephenson didn’t just gain experience north of the border – he thrived. He captained the side during his spell and picked up their Young Player of the Year award.
Now, that progress has sparked a transfer battle in England, with Championship sides Bolton Wanderers and Blackburn Rovers both keen on securing his signature according to the Daily Mail.
Bolton, newly promoted and looking to strengthen for the season ahead, are understood to be preparing a move for Stephenson. Liverpool are reportedly seeking a fee in the region of £1 million, including add-ons, for the midfielder.
That’s where Blackburn enter the picture. The Rovers are monitoring the situation closely and could make their move if Bolton hesitate or fail to meet Liverpool’s demands.
It was previously reported that Bolton were on the verge on an agreement with the Anfield club.
For Liverpool, this is another example of smart squad management – moving on a developed academy talent at the right time while still commanding a respectable fee. For Stephenson, it looks like the next step in his career is finally within reach after proving himself away from Anfield.