Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool’s youth sides have officially begun their summer preparations this week, with the senior squad due to join up for testing and training next week as Andoni Iraola’s first full campaign in charge edges closer.
That timing has thrown fresh light on Liverpool’s recent retained list and, in particular, the future of one of their most intriguing young midfielders.
Kyle Kelly, 20, appeared among the players whose existing deals had expired but who were also named as receiving fresh contract offers from the club, sparking some uncertainty over his status.
The St Kitts and Nevis international was listed alongside fellow academy prospects such as Prince Cisse and Keyrol Figueroa as being offered new terms, indicating that Liverpool were keen to keep him in the system.
Now, images of Kelly in full Liverpool training gear on the opening day of academy pre‑season strongly suggest that negotiations reached a successful conclusion, with the player expected to continue as part of the under‑21 set‑up.
Reliable academy reporter Lewis Bower reported:
“Kyle Kelly (20) was on the list of Liverpool academy players that contract had expired but was offered a new one by the club. Safe to assume the St Kitts and Nevis senior international has signed a new contract – back for first day of pre-season.”
Born in Northampton, Kelly has been at Liverpool’s academy since 2018 and signed his first professional contract in October 2022.
A left‑footed midfielder known for his attacking flair, he has become a regular for the under‑21s and has also made a name for himself on the international stage with St Kitts and Nevis, even scoring his first senior goal for the Caribbean nation earlier this year.
Liverpool’s decision to formally offer him a new deal – and his presence at Kirkby as pre‑season begins – points towards the club seeing him as a player worth backing for the next phase of his development.
With the academy already up and running and the senior squad due in next week, Kelly’s situation will be one to watch.
Kyle Kelly (20) was on the list of Liverpool academy players that contract had expired but was offered a new one by the club. Safe to assume the St Kitts and Nevis senior international has signed a new contract – back for first day of pre-season. pic.twitter.com/HvsSbBYb6d
— Lewis Bower (@LewisBower2021) July 6, 2026