Sources confirmed to ESPN that Barcelona are currently in talks about a transfer of Liverpool midfielder Stefan Bajčetić to RB Salzburg.
The 19-year-old Bajčetić has emerged as a loan candidate for Barça after Marc Bernal was out for several months on Wednesday due to a cruciate ligament tear.
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Salzburg, now coached by Jürgen Klopp's former assistant Pep Lijnders, had the edge and was able to close the deal with the young Spaniard.
However, Barça's promotion could change Bajčetić's final destination before the transfer window closes on Friday.
Former Liverpool midfielder Thiago Alcantara knows Bajčetić well from his time at Anfield and sources say he is pushing hard to complete the move on a season-long loan deal.
Thiago was part of the coaching staff of new Barça coach Hansi Flick in the summer on a short-term contract and could return after completing his professional player license.
Sources add that other clubs from Spain, Germany and France have also made enquiries to Liverpool.
Stefan Bajčetić has yet to play for Liverpool in the Premier League. Nikki Dyer – LFC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
The Catalan team had previously decided not to strengthen their midfield this summer, but Bernal's injury changed their plans.
With Gavi and Frenkie de Jong still out injured and Ilkay Gündogan back at Manchester City, they are missing a lot in midfield.
Barça have struggled to sign new players this summer, with Dani Olmo missing the first two games of the season before making his debut in Tuesday's win over Rayo Vallecano after his signing was finally processed.
However, since Bajčetić only arrived via a possible loan and does not earn a huge salary, the hope is that they will have the opportunity to sign him while complying with LaLiga's financial regulations.
Bajčetić joined Liverpool from his hometown club Celta Vigo in 2020 and made 22 appearances for the first team.
Klopp initially ordered him to play as a central defender in midfield, although he can also be used anywhere in the back four.
Injuries have hampered his progress in recent seasons, but sources say he is back to full fitness after a full preseason.
