Liverpool agree deal to sell future top star for rock-bottom fee | OneFootball

Liverpool have agreed a deal with Bolton Wanderers for Luca Stephenson.

The Liverpool Echo reported on Tuesday that the fee would be just £700k. Stephenson arrived at Anfield from the Sunderland academy as a teenager back in 2018 and has spent most of his career with the Reds out on loan.

The versatile defender-cum-midfielder played two seasons at Dundee United in the Scottish top flight. He was named the Tangerines’ young player of the year in 2024/25 and even earned the captain’s armband for Jim Goodwin’s side last term.

Luca Stephenson sold for a bargain £700k fee

Stephenson, 22, was called up for preseason training by Arne Slot during his two campaigns in charge of the Merseysiders - featuring on tour before heading out on loan.

Last summer the right-back / defensive midfielder even agreed a new contract - which makes the rock-bottom fee all the more surprising.

Liverpool were linked with bringing Stephenson back from his loan early in January as they were suffering from problems at right-back and requiring options in midfield.

Stephenson was tipped for first-team breakthrough in January

He ultimately stayed put - although an unfortunate muscle injury curtailed his spell north of the border early.

Stephenson was expected to be available for Andoni Iraola in preseason but now looks only moments away from sealing a deal with the newly-promoted Championship side.

Football Insider is reporting that a medical is scheduled for Wednesday July 1 - after which the deal will be ratified.

“The 22-year-old midfielder is set to have a medical at the Trotters on Wednesday ahead of completing a permanent move,” the report reads.

Luca Stephenson could be a 'top star'

Other teams have been in the mix for Stephenson - including Celtic and Rangers - but he now has a chance to express himself in the English second tier.

It may end up being a decision Richard Hughes regrets - as Stephenson has won Dundee United fans over with his tenacity, dedication and work-rate.

“Given his age, he could also develop into a top star, which has undoubtedly encouraged the Wanderers to get the signing over the line over the past couple of weeks,” the report reads.

Stephenson gave an interview a few weeks ago confirming his willingness to strike out alone for the sake of his career.

It’s a shame he hasn’t had his opportunities at Liverpool - especially considering the dearth of versatile and homegrown players in the squad.