Liverpool is reportedly in the final stages of discussions with RB Salzburg regarding a loan move for their young midfielder, Stefan Bajcetic. The 19-year-old talent is unlikely to see the level of first-team action he would prefer this season due to the presence of Dominik Szoboszlai, Alexis Mac Allister, and Ryan Gravenberch, who are favored by the new Liverpool manager, Arne Slot, as his primary options in the midfield.
Bajcetic, who is highly valued by Slot, is considered a future key player in the number six role. However, given the current depth in Liverpool’s midfield, it seems that Bajcetic may benefit more from a loan spell where he can secure regular playing time and continue his development, even if that means temporarily leaving Anfield.
The proposed loan move would see Bajcetic join RB Salzburg, where he would reunite with former Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders, who is now the head coach at the Austrian club. Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano has reported that Liverpool is actively working on finalizing this deal, which is expected to appeal to Bajcetic given Lijnders’ significant influence and previous relationship with the player.
Although several clubs in Spain’s La Liga have also expressed interest in securing Bajcetic on loan, the strong ties between Bajcetic and Lijnders could play a decisive role in directing the young midfielder towards a move to Salzburg. This connection, coupled with the opportunity to work under a coach who knows his strengths and weaknesses well, makes Salzburg a favorable destination for Bajcetic’s continued growth as a player.
Bajcetic, who still has three years remaining on his Liverpool contract, has been a part of the club’s first team for the past two years. During this time, he has made a total of 22 appearances across all competitions. His first and only goal for the senior team came in the Premier League against Aston Villa on Boxing Day in the 2022-23 season.
While the prospect of a loan move might initially seem like a step back for Bajcetic, it is likely a strategic decision aimed at ensuring his long-term success at Liverpool. By gaining consistent playing time and further honing his skills at RB Salzburg, Bajcetic could return to Liverpool better equipped to compete for a starting spot in the midfield, especially as the club looks to build for the future under Slot’s management.
This loan move, therefore, is not just about immediate game time but also about positioning Bajcetic to eventually fulfill the high expectations that Liverpool has for him as a potential leader in their midfield in the coming years.
