Liverpool’s Sheyi Ojo has been one of the hottest prospects among lower table and Championship clubs this summer after the young winger was left behind by the Reds for the pre-season tour at Hong Kong. The 20-year-old is widely expected to leave the club, whether permanently or temporarily, this summer and Liverpool have their luxury to cherry pick his next destination.
Reportedly, the Reds have already given the green light and clubs like Derby County, Fulham FC and Middlesbrough are all queueing up in front of the office to secure the services of the youngster. Premier League side Newcastle United are also among the interested parties but former Liverpool manager Rafael Benitez is keener to land him on a permanent basis as opposed to Liverpool’s wishes.
And if reports are to be believed, yet another Championship side Aston Villa have now entered the race to sign the winger. Following their frustrating season in the Championship last term, Steve Bruce has been quite active in the transfer market this summer, although all his arrivals have been to strengthen his back line.
Villa have brought in centre-half John Terry from Chelsea, signed Christopher Samba after having him on trial, midfielders Glenn Whelan from Stoke City and Ahmed Elmohamady from Hull City and goalie Sam Johnstone from Manchester United.
And for a side who could score only 47 goals last season in 46 games, the attack needs immediate priority. Apart from the enigmatic Gabriel Agbonlahor, Bruce only has Albert Adomah on the wings as a feasible option. And young Ojo could be an interesting addition to the side.
The MK Dons youth product was picked up by Liverpool in 2011 when he was only 14. But, he was an instant hit and broke into the first team within just three years. He has been sent on loan to Wigan Athletic and Wolverhampton Wanderers since then and Liverpool’s heavy reinforcements in the attack mean there will hardly be any chance for him next season.
Ojo has been a regular face for Liverpool Under-23s since then and England’s Under-19 and Under-20 sides. Since making his debut for the Under-20 side back in May this year, Ojo has already been capped five times. He has been playing for Liverpool’s Under 23 side since 2014 and has played 35 Premier League2 games so far, scoring 16 goals and assisting five times.
He has also seen some first team action in the past two years in between, where has one goal and four assists in 13 games. Liverpool have reportedly asked £10 million to let him go.
