Liverpool set to complete January move for defender | OneFootball

Liverpool weighing up next move for Calvin Ramsay after return to first-team action

Liverpool are considering their next steps for right-back Calvin Ramsay, following his return to senior action in the Carabao Cup defeat to Crystal Palace. Despite a solid display from the young Scotsman, plans are already being shaped for his long-term development — and a January loan exit appears the most likely outcome.

Early promise derailed by injuries

When Ramsay joined Liverpool from Aberdeen in 2021, he was regarded as one of the most promising full-backs to emerge from Scottish football in recent years. His technical ability, energy and attacking instincts marked him out as a modern defender capable of thriving under high-tempo, possession-based systems.

However, a string of injuries and fitness setbacks have severely limited his progression. Now 22, Ramsay has found himself on the fringes of the first team, having been loaned to a number of clubs — including Preston, Bolton, Wigan and Kilmarnock — without ever truly establishing himself.

After over 1,000 days away from the Liverpool first team, his start against Palace in the Carabao Cup was both a relief and a reminder of his raw potential. He looked composed on the ball, committed defensively and eager to make a statement. But for all the positives, Liverpool’s hierarchy believe his next steps need to be carefully managed.

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Loan move under consideration

Liverpool Under-21s boss Rob Page has hinted strongly that the club are preparing to loan Ramsay out again in January. The focus now is on ensuring the right move is secured — one that guarantees consistent minutes and an environment conducive to his recovery and growth.

“I’ve been really impressed with Calvin,” Page told This Is Anfield. “It’s been a collective effort from the medical, coaching and support staff to get him into a position where we can seriously look at a loan in January, or at least assess the next step for his career.”

That decision will depend partly on the fitness of other full-backs within Arne Slot’s squad. With Jeremie Frimpong sidelined for around six weeks and Conor Bradley also a key option, Ramsay could find himself with opportunities to feature more regularly in the coming weeks.

Chance to impress before January

Slot has already demonstrated a willingness to give young players meaningful minutes in domestic competitions, and Ramsay’s inclusion against Crystal Palace may not be a one-off. Should he continue to train well and take his chances when called upon, Liverpool could opt to delay any loan until late in the January window — or even keep him at Anfield for the rest of the season.

That said, the balance between development and opportunity remains delicate. Liverpool have long preferred to send young players to clubs where they can play regularly rather than stagnate on the bench, and Ramsay’s case is likely to follow that same philosophy.

Future still open-ended

For Ramsay, the coming months will be crucial. With his injury issues now seemingly behind him, he has a short window to prove that he belongs at the level Liverpool aspire to reach. If he performs well, he could yet force his way into Slot’s long-term plans. But if not, another loan could serve as the platform he needs to relaunch his career.

Liverpool’s staff, led by sporting director Michael Edwards and Slot’s coaching team, are understood to be aligned on the approach — prioritising player development and maintaining depth in key positions. Whether Ramsay’s future lies at Anfield or elsewhere, this period feels like a defining moment for a player once tipped to be Scotland’s next standout full-back.