Liverpool Midfielder Draws Interest Ahead of Final Contract Year | OneFootball

Luca Stephenson’s Future in the Balance as Liverpool and Dundee United Circle

Versatility and Maturity Shine in Pre-Season

Liverpool’s pre-season often offers young talents the stage to stake a claim, and Luca Stephenson has done exactly that. Fielded out of position at centre-back alongside Joe Gomez against Preston North End, the 21-year-old displayed the kind of composure and adaptability that academy coaches always speak about but rarely see at senior level.

While naturally a midfielder and more recently a right-back, Stephenson looked assured in defence, helping debutant Giorgi Mamardashvili keep a clean sheet in the first half. The outing came with both Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté rested and Jarell Quansah’s future still under review.

It was not his first time filling in at centre-back, but it certainly strengthened his case as a reliable utility player. The question, though, remains whether Arne Slot sees a long-term role for him within the first-team framework or whether Stephenson’s journey will continue elsewhere.

Contract Uncertainty Looms

Stephenson has entered the final year of his Liverpool contract, and decisions must be made. The club will likely offer a new deal, especially given his homegrown status and tactical flexibility. But opportunity, not just loyalty, must guide this next step in his career.

Photo: IMAGO

Speaking in April to DUTV, Stephenson made his feelings clear: “There will have to be some conversation about whether it’s staying at Liverpool for a new deal or whether it’s going elsewhere,” he said.

“The year I’ve had here, if I can replicate that again, I don’t see any reason why I wouldn’t want to play my football back up here.”

That year was spent at Dundee United, where he made 34 appearances before injury ruled him out of the season’s final weeks. The Tannadice club went on to secure a place in the Conference League qualifiers, adding another layer of appeal for the young Englishman.

Goodwin Admits Interest But Warns of Competition

Dundee United boss Jim Goodwin has not hidden his admiration for Stephenson’s contribution during the loan spell. Speaking to The Courier, Goodwin confirmed:

“I’ve made my feelings clear about Luca and how important a player he was last season for us. He’s one that we’re speaking to, but there’s no guarantees. Luca’s performances last season have caught the eye of a number of other teams. So, we just need to be patient with that one.”

Goodwin’s words reveal both intent and realism. United want him, but so do others. Clubs at the Championship level and abroad have reportedly registered interest, while Liverpool still hold the final say.

Photo: IMAGO

Slot Must Decide Whether to Keep or Cash In

Arne Slot has begun his tenure with a clear eye for balance and competition across the squad. Stephenson, with his tactical understanding and professionalism, could offer cover in multiple roles, particularly given the rigours of a season that includes a return to the Champions League.

Yet, if consistent minutes cannot be guaranteed, Liverpool may be wise to sanction a move, either permanently or on loan with a view to long-term development. Stephenson’s value lies not just in what he does on the pitch, but in the squad structure he supports.

His future, while uncertain, is not lacking options. And that, at 21, is a credit to his work and attitude.

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, Luca Stephenson is a symbol of what the club’s academy aims to produce: technically sound, positionally adaptable, and with a team-first attitude. Watching him fill in alongside Joe Gomez and look comfortable is no small thing, even in pre-season.

Whether or not he breaks into Arne Slot’s rotation, fans will want the club to retain him. With the homegrown quota becoming increasingly important and fixture congestion demanding deeper squads, players like Stephenson are gold dust.

If he does choose to leave, supporters will wish him well. His season at Dundee United showed he can handle senior football. Should he return there and play in Europe, it could even serve Liverpool in the long run if a buy-back or sell-on clause is included.

In a summer focused on reshaping and refreshing, keeping hold of Stephenson might be one of the quieter, cleverer pieces of business.