Barcelona Makes Bid to Secure Liverpool’s Bajcetic Amid Salzburg Interest

Barcelona is attempting to override Red Bull Salzburg‘s signing of Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic, who was widely expected to join the Austrian club on a season-long loan ahead of the upcoming transfer deadline.

The situation took a turn as Barcelona made an unexpected approach for Bajcetic, offering a loan fee estimated at around €4 million (£3.3 million; $4.4 million). Liverpool is now faced with the decision of which opportunity is most beneficial for Bajcetic’s development.

On the eve of this development, Bajcetic participated in training with his Liverpool team ahead of discussions regarding his future. Other clubs, including Feyenoord and Marseille, have also expressed interest, but the competition has narrowed to a direct choice between Barcelona and Salzburg.

The urgency for Barcelona’s interest arose after reports indicated that one of their young midfielders suffered a significant injury, rupturing his anterior cruciate ligament. Former Liverpool and Barcelona player, who has a good rapport with Bajcetic, has reportedly communicated with him about the potential move to Barcelona.

Salzburg’s head coach, Pep Lijnders, who previously served as Jurgen Klopp‘s assistant at Liverpool, has shown a strong desire to recruit the 19-year-old Bajcetic. Bajcetic originally joined Liverpool from Celta Vigo in 2020 for a fee of £224,000 and has been recognized for his notable talent.

During the 2022-23 season, Bajcetic made 19 appearances for Liverpool but his progress has been stunted due to injuries. A loan move is seen as essential for him to gain the playing time necessary for his development.

The loan of Bajcetic could also influence fellow midfielder Tyler Morton‘s status at Liverpool. Morton had attracted loan interest but Liverpool has indicated they would only consider permanent offers for him, further complicating the situation for Bajcetic.