Liverpool Midfield Reshuffle: Clarkson Out, Carvalho On Loan Only
Leighton Clarkson’s Departure Beckons
In the heart of Liverpool’s summer rebuild, we find Fabio Carvalho and Leighton Clarkson placed on the chopping block, with the latest buzz from reliable Athletic reporter James Pearce echoing around Reds fans. Unlike the opening chords of “You’ll Never Walk Alone,” this tune suggests that Clarkson could be departing Merseyside permanently.
Fresh from an impressive stint at Aberdeen, 21-year-old Clarkson made quite the splash. His sterling performance at the Scottish Premiership outfit, resulting in six goals and a handsome collection of nine assists across 38 matches, helped secure European qualification. It’s a tune that has not gone unnoticed, with a chorus of Scottish top-flight clubs and several Championship teams keen to secure his services.
With the hopeful signing of Brighton’s Alexis Mac Allister increasing the Reds’ midfield competition, it seems that the Liverpool-born lad will be showcasing his talents beyond Anfield.
The Case of Fabio Carvalho: Loan Only
On the flip side, Liverpool chiefs are steadfast on one particular stance: Fabio Carvalho is not for sale. The young gun from Fulham has certainly created a stir, drawing attention from Bundesliga’s RB Leipzig with a reported £10 million bid. However, this was swiftly rebuffed by the Liverpool hierarchy, keen to hold onto the starlet.
Instead, Carvalho, whose on-pitch minutes suffered a decline in the latter part of the season, is being primed for a loan. With several Premier League clubs in the mix, the young midfielder could potentially return to his former club, Fulham.
Following the expected arrival of Mac Allister, Liverpool will be scanning the horizon for other potential targets to strengthen their midfield ensemble. Among those on the shortlist are Ryan Gravenberch of Bayern Munich, Nice’s Khephren Thuram, Southampton’s Romeo Lavia, Borussia Monchengladbach’s Manu Kone, and Celta Vigo’s Gabri Veiga. The Anfield recruitment team is assessing availability and cost-effectiveness, ever-focused on building a squad ready for the upcoming season.
Yet, amidst all the speculation, Liverpool are not showing any interest in Barcelona’s Franck Kessie, despite rumours circulating from Spain of a possible £30 million bid for the Ivorian. So, for now, we can confirm that Kessie will not be donning the famous red shirt.