Liverpool youngster Luca Stephenson has committed his future to the club before sealing a season-long loan back to Dundee United.
The 21-year-old academy graduate agreed a contract extension with the Premier League champions, with his previous deal set to expire next summer. The new terms were finalised before Liverpool sanctioned his third loan spell away from Anfield.
Stephenson was a standout performer at Tannadice last season, impressing both at wing-back and in central midfield. He made 34 appearances, won the club’s Young Player of the Year award, and played through the pain barrier before undergoing surgery on a double hernia.
United boss Jim Goodwin was delighted to welcome him back, saying:
“Luca 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 – and that tells you all you need to know about his character.
Advertisement“He’s come back stronger, fully fit, and hungry to pick up where he left off. He’s had a brilliant summer working under (Liverpool manager) Arne Slot and alongside some of the best players in the world.
“That experience will serve him and us incredibly well this season.”
Stephenson had also attracted loan interest from Swansea, Cardiff, Reading and Rotherham, while Aberdeen considered a permanent move, but he chose to return to United.
The right-back, who can also operate in midfield and across the defensive line, featured four times for Liverpool in pre-season, against Preston, Stoke, AC Milan and Athletic Bilbao.
