Why Liverpool should look at Sam Campbell as one for the future
According to Press Association (h/t The Scottish Sun), Liverpool are among a host of Premier League clubs credited with an interest in highly-rated Motherwell teenager Sam Campbell.
The 16-year-old defender, who has also been closely monitored by Leeds United and Brighton, is widely regarded as one of the most exciting talents coming out of the Scottish top-flight. (Press Association h/t Scottish Sun)
As per the report, all three aforementioned clubs have had bids accepted by Motherwell for Campbell while Crystal Palace are also in the race to wrap up a deal for the youngster.
Liverpool didn’t really need to make any wholesale changes to their squad this summer after winning the Champions League and the Premier League crowns in the last two seasons. The Reds, though, have sent out a strong message that they aren’t looking to bask in the glory with some smart business in the transfer window.
Having roped in Kostas Tsimikas earlier in the summer, Liverpool have also grabbed the headlines with the signing of Thiago Alcantara and Diogo Jota.
Those new acquisitions are expected to provide some much-needed depth in quality to Jurgen Klopp’s side as they bid to consolidate on their first domestic league triumph in 30 years. Now that the Reds have successfully addressed their issues in the first-team, they should now turn their attention to strengthening their academy ranks before the next month’s deadline.
Liverpool have put a lot of emphasis on their youth recruitment drive over the past few years, scouring the continent in an attempt to unearth hidden gems. The likes of Harvey Elliott and Sepp van den Berg joined the ranks last summer, with both players going on to make their professional debuts in the previous campaign.
Sam Campbell, to that end, would represent yet another fantastic addition to the existing pool of burgeoning young talents at Anfield. The 16-year-old is yet to make his first-team bow for Motherwell in the Scottish Premiership but the fact that he played for the club’s U-18 side aged just 14 clearly indicates a level of maturity that belies his tender years.
Verdict
Motherwell are right up there with the likes of Celtic and Rangers when it comes to budding top-quality young talent in their academy. David Turnbull came through the youth ranks at Fir Park before establishing himself as one of the best young goalscoring midfielders in Scottish football and eventually earning a move to Celtic.
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As for Liverpool, they have some highly-rated young defenders like Van den Berg, Neco Williams, and Rhys Williams, so it will be interesting to see Campbell compete for his place in the youth ranks if a move to Liverpool does materialise.
The Reds lost Ki-Jana Hoever to Wolves earlier this summer and Sam Campbell, who is a couple of years younger, seems to be a good young player to walk through the door at Anfield.
