Neil Jones downplays Liverpool pursuit of Alan Varela as Stefan Bajcetic returns
Neil Jones dismissed links between Liverpool and Porto midfielder Alan Varela with Stefan Bajcetic playing an important role next season. Bajcetic has spent the majority of the season recuperating from his injury and building the physique to match his immense talent.
He impressed the fans and staff last season when Liverpool’s midfield struggled as many long-serving players aged past their peak. However, during the latter stage of the last season, Bajcetic suffered an adductor injury which sidelined him till August.
The 19-year-old played a few games earlier this season and the premature involvement caused further injuries. Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has taken a keen interest in Bajcetic’s development, making sure he has a long career ahead.
He required a vigorous and special approach to build up physically to compensate for the demands of the senior level. Nevertheless, Bajcetic has returned to action for Liverpool U21 with the idea of featuring more at the senior level next season.
In the exclusive article on Fabrizio Roman’s Daily Briefing, Jones dismissed being aware of any link between Liverpool and Varela. The journalist highlighted the stacked midfield at Anfield despite the potential departure of Thiago Alcantara during the summer.
Liverpool considers Bajcetic an important player for the already well-stocked squad. Despite the Porto man being compared to former Red hero, Javier Mascherano, Bajetic’s talents are appreciated at Kirkby at the highest levels.
“Stefan Bajcetic, who has recently returned to action, and I believe he is an important player to think about when discussing Liverpool’s midfield plans. He is only 19, has already made an impression on the first team, and has the skills and versatility to play as a No.6 or a No.8, depending on the needs of the team. He is viewed internally at Liverpool as a big player for the future, and I expect him to have a significant role to play going forward, and therefore a significant impact on the club’s transfer plans in midfield.”
Liverpool vice-captain Trent Alexander-Arnold is also gradually transitioning into a full-fledged central midfielder, featuring often in midfield this season. The Reds have Alexis Mac Allister, Trent, Wataru Endo and Bajcetic for the deep midfield role next season.
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Despite the qualities that Varela possesses, Liverpool doesn’t throw big cash on someone who is not a necessity right now. The Reds have other departments that need their immediate attention and they would want to confirm a successor to Klopp before making transfer decisions.
