Liverpool's Harvey Elliott has expressed his pride in close mate Tyler Morton following his permanent departure from Anfield. It comes amid fresh speculation over Elliott's own future at Liverpool, after an approach from RB Leipzig.
Morton, who joined the Reds' academy at just seven years old, made his debut under Jurgen Klopp in September 2021 and racked up 14 senior appearances. Despite playing a supporting role as Liverpool clinched the Premier League title under Arne Slot last season, Morton has now completed a $20 million (£15 million) transfer to French club Lyon.
Elliott, who arrived at Liverpool from Fulham in 2019 at the age of 16, has been alongside Morton throughout their journeys. Both players spent a season on loan at Blackburn Rovers before making their mark in Liverpool's first team.
The departure of such a close friend and colleague to embark on a new adventure must have been bittersweet for Elliott, who took to Instagram to send a heartfelt message to his now-former teammate.
"My brother @tylermorton6. So proud my mate! ! Deserve it more than anyone [two red heart emojis]," Elliott shared on his Instagram story, re-sharing Lyon's video that announced the signing.
With Morton's move, Liverpool's summer 2025 transfer income from player sales has hit an impressive $193M (£145m). A sweetener in the deal is the inclusion of a 20 percent sell-on clause for any future sale of the academy product.
Fans will have to bide their time to see if a similar deal involving Elliott is struck in the closing weeks of the transfer window.
Throughout the summer, the promising attacking midfielder has been linked with moves to various clubs. Even as Morton's transfer to France was confirmed, it was reported that West Ham United had shown interest but failed to act before Lyon, and the London club had been eyeing a double capture of the pair.
Elliott has been candid about his situation, admitting that he may need to make a 'selfish' decision for more game time to fulfil his career goals.
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"If I had it my way I would be here for the rest of my career, it's as simple as that," Elliott confessed to The Anfield Wrap.
"I love everything about the club, but at the same time I kind of need to be selfish and see what's best for me. I have big ambitions. I want to get in the World Cup squad.
"I want to keep being successful as a player. It's something I still need to review. I need to have a talk with everyone and review the situation. we have many new players who have come in so whether it blocks the path for me I'm not sure. It's something I need to have a look at and decide."
Elliott found the back of the net in the first of two friendlies against Athletic Club on Monday at Anfield. His powerful strike from inside the penalty box was followed by a celebration where he thumped the Liverpool badge on his shirt.
Following the match, the young star took a moment to acknowledge the fans in each of Anfield's four stands, even sending a kiss towards The Kop.