Rangers have stopped pursuing Luca Stephenson but Championship clubs are ready and waiting
Luca Stephenson has spent the last two seasons on loan with Dundee United.
The 22-year-old has been one of their best players over the last couple of years with the midfielder even being named their captain at certain points this season.
Stephenson is one of Arne Slot’s favourite youngsters among Liverpool’s academy ranks as he is a fairly versatile player considering his age.
However, it now seems like the midfielder wants a new challenge and to be able to settle down and make an impact.
That is, if a report from Football Insider is to be believed.
"He’s [Stephenson] somebody they [Rangers] did look at and were keeping tabs on, Luca Stephenson, due to his form on loan at Dundee United,” Pete O’Rourke said.
"I don’t think anything’s developed on that one. They haven’t stepped up that interest.
"There’s a lot of interest in Stephenson from some English Championship clubs who are probably leading the race for him right now as well.
"Rangers did look at him, but I don’t think they’ve pursued it anymore and haven’t really followed up on their initial interest.
"So, as things stand right now, if Stephenson is to move in the summer it’s probably more likely he’ll move to the EFL in England.
"There’s a number of clubs ready to offer him a move away from Anfield."
Liverpool could use Luca Stephenson in their plans next season
Since Liverpool only really have Ryan Gravenberch who can comfortably play as a number six, it’s clear that a new defensive midfielder needs to be brought in.
Adam Wharton would be a perfect transfer for them to get over the line but, with how many new players they already need to bring in, Slot and Hughes may not focus on strengthening their midfield as much as other areas in their team.
This is why Stephenson would be a perfect option for Liverpool to explore.
The 22-year-old is a fairly versatile player who can play as a midfielder or as a right-back and, with the problems Liverpool have had with injuries, versatility will be key next term.
As per Fotmob in the Scottish Premiership, Stephenson has shined defensively.
He's intercepted 23 balls, recovered it 101 times and has even made 28 tackles, he's also only been dribbled past on eight occasions.
Stephenson may not have had any senior experience at a top-level club but, his two years in Scotland certainly proved how good he could be.
Here's hoping that Slot chooses to lean on the Reds' academy ranks more this season than he has done previously, especially if the Reds want to get back to their best.
