Liverpool think Bajcetic is ‘special’ as Reds sign Mac Allister and Szoboszlai

Liverpool think they have a ‘special’ midfielder on their books to go along with new signings Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. The Reds will make Szoboszlai their second signing of the summer after activating the RB Leipzig player’s £60million release clause.

Szoboszlai flew into Merseyside for a medical on Saturday and will put pen-to-paper on a long-term contract in the next part of Jurgen Klopp’s midfield rebuild. It follows the capture of Mac Allister from Brighton for £35m rising to £55m.

But with the potential for Liverpool to sign more midfielders – with Khephren Thuram and Romeo Lavia leading names – they also believe they have a top-tier talent on their hands already. The Daily Mail report that those inside the club think young Stefan Bacjetic is a ‘special’ player.

The 18-year-old made quite the impression last season in his 19 first-team appearances. He became the third-youngest player ever to score for Liverpool in the Premier League in a win at Aston Villa.

Former Celta Vigo prospect Bajcetic signed a new contract in January and is regarded as one of the club’s brightest talents. The teenager showcased excellent composure and control of possession in each of his outings and was also one of the team’s best ball-winners during his spell in the side.

The Spain under-19 international’s season was sadly cut short in March due to injury or else he would have made several more appearances. But he can expect to build on his tally in 2023-24, despite an influx of fresh quality in midfield.

Bajcetic – who can play as a No 6 and a No 8 – is likely to get a fair share of minutes in the Europa League as Liverpool return to Europe’s second tier competition. He will also hope for frequent involvement in the Premier League as Klopp’s team look to improve on a disappointing campaign last time out.

The German manager showered Bajcetic with praise in February, hailing his footballing intelligence. He said: “A top player. It’s a joy to work with him. The mix of Serbia and Spain is good for his football. He’s an intelligent boy. Interesting that his dad and Thiago’s dad played together. Thiago took him under his wing. An absolute joy.”

Mohamed Salah was also impressed by his junior team-mate following a Merseyside derby defeat of Everton at Anfield in February. The Egyptian told Sky Sports: “He’s a great player and person, he always tries to work hard. Since he started playing for us, he has been our best player maybe so hopefully, he keeps that confidence and keeps going.”

Bajcetic responded: “Mo Salah is probably one of the best players ever in Liverpool history so it is nice to hear a legend say that to me. It’s crazy, I was playing under 18s a year ago and now I am playing at Anfield and that just happened in one year and I am really enjoying it.”