Forward reveals talks over potential Liverpool return | OneFootball

Liverpool monitoring Lewis Koumas loan situation

Liverpool’s approach to player development has rarely been linear. Loans are used as testing grounds, proving exercises as much as pathways, and this season has again shown how unpredictable that process can be. Several young players have already returned earlier than planned, others remain in limbo, and one name now drifting back into focus is Lewis Koumas.

The forward, still only 20, has reached a familiar crossroads. His current loan at Birmingham City was meant to accelerate momentum built during an eye catching year in the Championship. Instead, it has become a lesson in patience, timing and circumstance, all watched closely by Liverpool.

Koumas loan experiences shaping development

Koumas spent the 2024-25 campaign at Stoke City, featuring close to 50 times across competitions. It was a demanding season, physically and mentally, and one that helped define his identity as a senior footballer rather than a promising academy graduate.

Photo: IMAGO

That progress persuaded Liverpool to sanction another Championship loan, this time with Birmingham City, a club with promotion ambitions and a manager keen on proactive football. Opportunities, however, were sporadic early on. Matchday squads came and went, starts were limited, and rhythm proved elusive.

Only recently has the picture shifted. An injury to Demarai Gray opened space in the attacking rotation, and Koumas stepped into the starting lineup. His first goal of the season came against Coventry, a moment that hinted at confidence returning, just as minutes began to follow.

Liverpool discussions confirm uncertainty

Those developments have coincided with conversations between player and parent club. Speaking to the Birmingham Mail, Koumas confirmed contact with Liverpool and left the door open to change.

“We’ve obviously had conversations (with Liverpool) but I’m keeping my head down, working hard and we’ll see what happens,” he said.

It is the sort of quote that reveals little yet suggests plenty. Liverpool are known to review loan situations in January, especially when circumstances shift. Whether Birmingham’s reliance on Koumas continues beyond Gray’s return later this month may influence the decision.

Next steps for Koumas at Liverpool

An early recall would not necessarily mean a role at Anfield for the remainder of the season. More likely, Liverpool would seek another loan, potentially still in the Championship, one better aligned with guaranteed minutes and tactical clarity.

Koumas has already shown he can handle senior football. He has played and scored for Liverpool’s first team, breaking through under Jurgen Klopp, but opportunities have not yet arrived under Arne Slot. What matters now is continuity, confidence and a setting that allows growth rather than stagnation.

For Liverpool, Koumas remains a project worth protecting, even if the route forward requires another adjustment.