According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Barcelona “submit straight loan proposal” to sign Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic. The 19-year-old Spaniard has not featured for the Reds this season as he works his way back from an injury-hit campaign last year.
Barcelona Exploring Loan Move for Liverpool Midfielder Stefan Bajcetic
Bajcetic Part of Arne Slot’s Long-Term Plans
Barcelona’s offer contains a £3.4 million fee, with no clause to buy the midfielder. Neither Liverpool nor Barca are interested in negotiating a permanent deal, as the Reds have long-term plans for Bajcetic.
Liverpool are open to sending the Spaniard out on loan this season. Red Bull Salzburg, managed by former Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders, are also keen on taking on the midfielder.
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This news comes as a surprise to fans, who have been frustrated by a lack of transfer activity thus far. Liverpool’s only permanent signing has been goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who has returned to Valencia on loan. However, the Reds are closing in on a deal for Juventus winger Federico Chiesa.
Liverpool have looked to strengthen their midfield options this transfer window. Their failed pursuit of Martin Zubimendi has shown that Arne Slot recognises the area as a weakness. On the other hand, Ryan Gravenberch has started the season strongly, showing that reinforcements in this area are not as urgent as first thought.
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Whilst Bajcetic complements Slot’s style of play well, he realises that first-team opportunities will be scarce this season. He is yet to make the matchday squad and faces high competition from more established names. Therefore, a loan move suits both parties well as Bajcetic continues his recovery from long-term injuries.
The Spaniard joined the Reds at the age of 16 and broke into the first team during the 2022/23 season. He used this opportunity to showcase his maturity and composure and started six league matches that season, scoring once.
Bajcetic to Cover for Injured Bernal
Barcelona are looking for a replacement for Marc Bernal after the 17-year-old suffered an anterior cruciate ligament injury in Tuesday’s win over Rayo Vallecano. It is expected that the Spanish teenager will miss the rest of the season.
Therefore, head coach Hansi Flick has lined up Bajcetic as the ideal cover for this season. He too is a deep-lying midfielder who has excelled with his ball progression and recoveries and has been described as “battle-hardened” following a turbulent few years.
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Furthermore, the Spaniard can learn from compatriot Pedri, who is a graduate of the famous La Masia academy. It is unclear whether Flick views Bajcetic as a starting option at the moment. Bernal had started Barcelona’s opening two matches, but the new loanee could be eased into action more slowly.
However, Barca are lacking in midfield options. Bernal joins fellow wonderkid Gavi on the sidelines, which could force Flick’s hand. Bajcetic proved his fitness as he featured in four pre-season matches for the Reds, but never started.
