Liverpool midfielder is targeted by Real Betis for January move with Arne Slot previously insisting the ‘very talented’ star has a future at Anfield

Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajcetic has emerged as an option for Real Betis with the Spanish club considering a move in the January transfer window.

The 20-year-old broke into the first team during the 2022-23 season under former manager Jurgen Klopp and impressed as he went on to make 11 appearances. 

However, long term adductor and calf injuries set back his progress back and the academy talent played just once last season prior to Arne Slot taking charge in the summer.

A subsequent loan move to Red Bull Salzburg followed where he worked under former Liverpool assistant Pep Lijnders, but things having worked out. 

Liverpool’s original plan had been for him stay with the Austrian club but Real Betis are now showing interest and could try to convince the club to strike a deal this month.

It is yet to be seen whether the Premier League leaders would be willing to sell Bajcetic on a permanent deal or prefer to loan the youngster on another temporary deal.

The 20-year-old broke into the first team during the 2022-23 season but has struggled with injuries

Bajcetic has made 18 appearances in all competitions for Salzburg this season, including five Champions League outings, but could be tempted by a move back to his homeland. 

His initial move to RB Salzburg didn’t include an obligation to buy and Liverpool boss Slot believe the youngster can still have an impact at Anfield in the future.

‘I hope it will be a big year for him because he’s a very talented player because he’s been out for 15 months and I think he could become a very important player for us, only if he gets playing time now,’ Slot previously said.

‘If you are that young and you’ve been out for so long, the only thing you need is playing time. 

Bajcetic became a trusted midfield star under the guidance of former boss Jurgen Klopp (right)

Liverpool manager Arne Slot previously hailed Bajcetic as a ‘very talented player’

‘He could have playing time over here, but we’ve got six or seven very good midfielders, so his playing time here will always be more limited than we expect him to play at Salzburg.

‘So for him, and us, we think it’s the best for him to play at the moment, instead of maybe play a few times and then be on the bench for a long time again. 

‘It’s very difficult to keep a player fit who’s been out for 15 months to only play him once in a while.’

Bajcetic’s existing contract at Anfield currently expires in 2027.