Liverpool are in the middle of a big summer.

Most fans are watching the club chase major signings, and rightfully so.

The Reds want to win again, and they’re spending like they mean it.

But behind all the headlines, something else is happening.

Liverpool transfer news as Reds close in on $20M midfielder deal with Lyon	Lyon close in on £15m deal for Liverpool midfielder	Liverpool and Euro giants discussing £15m midfielder transfer deal

Quiet moves, less flashy, but just as important.

Some of the club’s brightest Academy talents are now preparing to take the next step.

That means loan spells, and in some cases, permanent exits.

And when that time comes, Liverpool want to make sure they are making the right calls — not just for the club, but for the players.

That’s why decisions on a few youngsters are taking longer.

One player, in particular, has caught the eye of several clubs across different leagues.

A few want him back.

Others want him for the first time.

One club, though, is pushing to get him in for good.

21-year-old midfielder Luca Stephenson has done well to get himself on Liverpool’s radar this summer.

He featured regularly during pre-season and travelled with the senior squad on the Far East tour.

His performances — both in training and in games — made a strong impression on Arne Slot’s staff.

Now, Liverpool have a decision to make.

Stephenson spent last season on loan at Dundee United.

The Scottish side liked him enough to name him their Young Player of the Season.

They would be happy to bring him back on loan.

But they’re not alone.

According to Ian Doyle of Liverpool Echo, Championship side Swansea City are interested.

So are League One teams Cardiff City, Reading, and Rotherham United.

All want him on a temporary basis.

But Aberdeen are looking beyond that.

They are considering a permanent move for the midfielder.

The report read, “Another Scottish side, Aberdeen, are also admirers of the player and are considering a permanent move having previously signed Leighton Clarkson from the Reds.”

The Scottish Premiership side have already had success with one Liverpool youngster — Leighton Clarkson — and believe Stephenson could follow a similar path.

Liverpool, though, won’t let him go just yet.

If he leaves on loan, the club will extend his contract before he departs.

They see value in his progress and want to protect their position.

One thing is clear — Stephenson has options.

And for Liverpool, this is a good problem to have.

Read more: Newcastle United believe there is a way back for Alexander Isak

Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone?
For more news relating to Newcastle United, visit our sister site NUFC Latest Live.