Fabrizio Romano reports that Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic has agreed terms with former club Celta Vigo, as his time at Anfield draws to a close.
The young Spaniard was a hugely promising player back in 2022/23, standing out as a rare positive in an otherwise galling season under Jurgen Klopp.
Since then, however, Bajcetic has been cruelly dogged by injuries, making only three appearances for Liverpool and being loaned out to RB Salzburg and Las Palmas.
The 21-year-old only has one year remaining on his current Reds deal, and with no sign of him being part of Andoni Iraola’s plan, a move away this summer makes perfect sense.
Writing on X, Romano claimed that a return to Celta in the coming days is on the cards: “Celta Vigo are closing in on personal terms agreement with Stefan Bajcetic to join from Liverpool.”
This comes after reports that Bajcetic is in Finland to prove his fitness and seal a reunion with the club he played for during his youth, as he looks to kick on in his career.
The right time for Stefan Bajcetic to leave Liverpool?
It is sad to see Bajcetic not reach his potential at Liverpool, and like so many young players before him – Rhian Brewster stands out as a recent example – injuries have played a huge part in it.
The midfielder is such a gifted and effective player on his day, but his future lies away from Anfield, even though Klopp lauded him during their time working together:
“Top talent, super player. Played really good for us so far. Since he is with us it is a pure joy to work with him. I think the mix of Serbia and Spain is a good one for football. If you meet him he is a top, intelligent boy and it is a joy to work together.”
Bajcetic leaving now allows Liverpool to receive a fee for him, rather than losing him on a free transfer at the end of the season, and a fresh challenge is the best outcome for all parties.
He is still young enough to overcome the fitness woes and enjoy a great career for years to come, and Reds supporters will only wish him the best in his next chapter.