Liverpool winger set to leave the club – “A move is close” | OneFootball

Liverpool Youngster Could be Set to Leave the Club

Liverpool could be about to lose one of their most intriguing academy prospects, with Molde closing in on a deal for Trent Kone-Doherty. It is the sort of development that tells you plenty about the realities of elite football in 2026, where pathways are talked about frequently but rarely guaranteed.

Academy Congestion at Liverpool

Kirkby has produced talent consistently, but there is a traffic jam. Even highly rated prospects have found game time difficult to secure. Liam Balmer has already confirmed his departure, with Leeds United reportedly his next step. Others are weighing up similar calls.

For young attackers in particular, the route to Liverpool’s first team remains steep. Competition is fierce and patience is tested. That context matters when assessing Trent Kone-Doherty’s situation.

The 19-year-old winger has been on an upward curve since arriving from Derry City in 2022. His numbers for the U18s and U21s have been impressive, goals and assists arriving with regularity. International recognition followed, with appearances for the Republic of Ireland Under 21 side.

Photo: IMAGO

Trent Kone-Doherty Profile and Potential

Trent Kone-Doherty brings pace, direct dribbling and a refreshing willingness to attack defenders one versus one. Coaches at Kirkby have long valued his bravery in possession. He earned a senior debut in the FA Cup defeat at Plymouth last season, a 1-0 loss that nevertheless offered him a glimpse of the big stage.

This season he has trained with the first team intermittently, enough to signal belief in his talent, not enough to guarantee a breakthrough. For a winger at his age, development hinges on rhythm and repetition. Watching from the bench rarely accelerates growth.

Reliable academy reporter Lewis Bower has outlined the current position clearly:

“Trent Kone-Doherty has been offered a new deal at Liverpool however he has the opportunity to go to Molde FK to be part of the first-team on a permanent deal. As things stand a move is close.”

Molde Opportunity for First Team Football

Molde, a club with a track record of nurturing young talent, are offering something Liverpool cannot promise right now, regular senior football. In Norway, the pathway appears clearer. Minutes would be earned, but they would also be realistic.

For Liverpool, losing Trent Kone-Doherty would sting. He represents both investment and potential resale value. For the player, Molde could represent clarity and acceleration.

The decision now rests on ambition versus opportunity. Stay and fight for a place in a crowded Liverpool attack, or step into Molde’s first team and build a career through action rather than anticipation. As things stand, the latter appears increasingly likely.