The Times report Liverpool are planning contract talks with midfielder

The Times Report: Liverpool Planning Contract Talks with Midfielder

Liverpool FC are reportedly preparing contract extension discussions with a key midfielder, according to a The Times report, amid plans to secure the player's long-term future at Anfield as the January transfer window looms.

The midfielder in question is Tyler Morton, the 22-year-old academy product whose current deal expires in 2026. Having impressed during loans at Blackburn Rovers and most recently in the Netherlands with Heerenveen, Liverpool view Morton as a valuable squad option under manager Arne Slot. Sources indicate the club aims to reward his development with improved terms, potentially tying him down before external interest intensifies.

This move aligns with Liverpool's strategy to retain homegrown talent amid a busy midfield landscape. Recent reports highlight similar talks for players like Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott, while Alexis Mac Allister remains firmly committed despite Real Madrid links. Morton's versatility—capable in central midfield or as a No. 8—makes him ideal for Slot's high-pressing system.

Contract negotiations are expected to commence soon at the AXA Training Centre, where Morton has already returned for first-team integration. The timing is crucial, with the January window opening and rivals like Manchester United scouting young midfielders such as AZ's Kees Smit. Liverpool's proactive approach underscores their intent to build squad depth without major spending, especially after rebuffing Saudi interest in stars like Mohamed Salah.

Should talks succeed, it would mark another win for Liverpool's youth pipeline, following extensions for Ibrahima Konate and others. Fans await official confirmation, hopeful for stability in a competitive season.

(Word count: 298)Summary based on latest reports[1][2][4]