Liverpool not prepared to make decision on future of young academy graduate until they return from preseason tour

Brad Cox

Liverpool not prepared to make decision on future of young academy graduate until they return from preseason tour image

Liverpool are taking their time in deciding Bobby Clark's future amidst strong interest from Red Bull Salzburg, according to a report from The Athletic. 

The 19-year-old midfielder was absent from the recent U.S. tour due to a back injury but has since resumed training with the club's under-21 squad at Kirkby.

Salzburg, now managed by Jurgen Klopp’s former assistant Pep Lijnders, are looking to sign him. 

However, Liverpool are holding out for at least £12 million ($15.3 million) if they were to consider a permanent transfer.

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Multiple clubs interested in Clark along with Tyler Morton

At present, a loan move seems more likely says James Pearce of The Athletic, with Championship clubs Norwich City, Leeds United, Sheffield United, and Coventry City all expressing interest.

Clark joined Liverpool's academy from Newcastle United in 2021 and made significant moves in his career last season as he made 12 senior appearances. He also scored his first professional goal for the club which came in the Europa League vs. Sparta Prague.

It's no surprise that Salzburg is interested, given Clark's development under the guidance of Lijnders, but Liverpool intend to evaluate Clark's role in the first-team squad when they return from the U.S. tour before making a final decision on his potential departure.

The report from Pearce adds that another young Liverpool midfielder, Tyler Morton, has been attracting interest from clubs like RB Leipzig and Atalanta. 

The 21-year-old returned to Liverpool this summer following a successful loan spell at Hull City and has caught the eye of Arne Slot with his skills and attitude during pre-season.

Brad Cox

Brad Cox Photo

Brad is a content producer for The Sporting News and has previously worked for the likes of Squawka and The Athletic. His career highlight to date is reporting from the 2022 UEFA Champions League Final in Paris.