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Liverpool midfielder Luca Stephenson, who was signed from Sunderland at the age of 15, has moved on loan to Dundee United in Scotland for the second season in a row, having impressed for the Tannadice side last year.
Stephenson scored on his debut in 2024/25 and went on to win the SPL team's Young Player of the Season award. At 21, he needed regular senior game time again this time around, but wasn't going to get that under Arne Slot.
That is despite Stephenson impressing during the Reds' pre-season. He slotted in at right-back and center-back to fill gaps but it best deployed in the center of the field.
Stephenson was a revelation at Dundee United last season. The fans were won over early on with a few of the players' strikes finding the back of the net.
"We’re absolutely thrilled to welcome Luca back to Tannadice," Dundee United manager Jim Goodwin said. "He made a tremendous impact last season, not just in terms of performances, but in the mentality and energy he brought to the group every single day.
"Even when he was struggling physically, he gave everything for the badge. That tells you all you need to know about his character.
"Luca’s return was a priority for us this window. He brings something unique in terms of his leadership, versatility and understanding of how we want to play.
"He’s come back stronger, fully fit, and hungry to pick up where he left off. He’s had a brilliant summer working under Arne Slot and alongside some of the best players in the world — that experience will serve him and us incredibly well this season.
"Luca knows what this club stands for, the standards expected and the passion of our fanbase. To bring in someone of his quality, who’s already embedded in the culture and values of the club, is a massive boost."
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Before heading out on loan, Stephenson penned new terms with Liverpool. His existing contract was set to expire next summer.
Stephenson signed his first professional contract with Liverpool in September 2020. He then penned a new, extended deal with the Reds in February 2022.
The midfielder made his debut for Liverpool U18s in 2019-20 as an U16 player. In the 2020-21 season, he was named captain at that age group under Marc Bridge-Wilkinson.
Liverpool.com says: Stephenson did well during pre-season but the minutes would quickly dry up if he stayed around. Heading back to a club he knows well and has already settled into once could be a wise move.
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