Bolton’s bargain hunt: why Liverpool off‑loaded Luca Stephenson

Liverpool have agreed to transfer 22‑year‑old Luca Stephenson to Bolton Wanderers, with the fee set at £700,000. The move comes as Liverpool search for versatile options at right‑back and defensive midfield after injuries and a lack of homegrown depth. Stephenson, a product of the Sunderland academy who joined Anfield in 2018, has spent most of his senior career on loan.

Liverpool faced right‑back injuries and a midfield shortage, prompting interest in recalling Stephenson from his loan in January. Manager Arne Slot had already called him into preseason training, and he was also expected to be available for Andoni Iraola’s squad.

While on loan, Stephenson spent two seasons in the Scottish Premiership with Dundee United. He earned the club’s young player of the year award for 2024/25 and captained Jim Goodwin’s side last term.

Stephenson signed a new Liverpool contract last summer, yet the club accepted a £700,000 fee. The low price was noted as surprising given his recent contract extension.

Football Insider reports a medical is set for Wednesday, 1 July, at Bolton’s Trotters facilities. “The 22‑year‑old midfielder is set to have a medical at the Trotters on Wednesday ahead of completing a permanent move,” the report reads. Celtic and Rangers were also linked with Stephenson, but Bolton moved ahead.

Bolton manager Richard Hughes may regret losing a player praised for tenacity, dedication and work‑rate that won over Dundee United supporters. “Given his age, he could also develop into a top star, which has undoubtedly encouraged the Wanderers to get the signing over the line over the past couple of weeks,” the report reads.