Liverpool Trio Absent from Pre-Season Amid Transfer Speculation

Liverpool‘s pre-season is underway with a mix of academy players filling the ranks. Manager Arne Slot has included nineteen academy talents in his squad, giving young players like Kieran Morrison, Luca Stephenson, Dominic Corness, and James Norris a chance to impress.

But three notable players are missing from this early preparation phase which has sparked transfer rumours.

Bobby Clark, Rhys Williams, and Billy Koumetio are absent from pre-season training.

Clark, who made 12 first-team appearances last season is rumoured to be dealing with a minor injury. Clubs like Salzburg, RB Leipzig, and Norwich are interested in the 19-year-old midfielder, which also possibly explains his absence as the Reds want him to avoid any fitness issues that could hinder a loan move.

Defenders Rhys Williams and Billy Koumetio are also missing. With key players like Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate on duty at Euro 2024, their absence is more conspicuous.

Williams (23) and Koumetio (21) both had unsuccessful loan spells last season. This suggests they may not have a long-term future at Anfield.

Liverpool might be open to permanent transfers for these defenders, but it remains to be seen if there will be suitable interest given their recent struggles.

Goalkeeper Jakub Ojrzynski is another absentee, who is currently on trial with Polish side GKS Katowice, while players like James Balagizi, Oakley Cannonier, and Isaac Mabaya are preparing at the academy and are hoping to make an impact in the upcoming season.