Liverpool transfer news: Calvin Ramsay breakthrough sees deal near as pundit salutes clever Reds ploy

Liverpool are reportedly closing in on the capture of Calvin Ramsay after a breakthrough in negotiations with Aberdeen over the teenager.

The full-back has earmarked himself as a major star of the future after a starring role for the Dons in 2021/22. He made 33 appearances in all competitions for the Scottish Premiership side, with his form attracting a flock of scouts to Pittodrie.

Indeed, that form has led to speculation of a move to Liverpool. The Reds are always keeping an eye out for top young talent and also need specialist cover for right-back Trent Alexander-Arnold.

However, they are not alone in their admiration for Ramsay. Leeds United and Bologna are also seemingly keen to land the full-back, with a report last month suggesting Leeds were in pole position.

Jesse Marsch’s side, however, are closing in on another player, with a deal for Salzburg’s Rasmus Kristensen seemingly close.

That appears to have left Liverpool with a clear path to his signature, with talks progressing in recent days.

The Dons are seemingly looking for an initial fee of £3m. However, any arrangement will likely contain a number of add-ons, with a hefty sell-on clause also likely to be part of their negotiations.

Aberdeen had been looking for an initial £4m fee. They have, though, reportedly agreed to lower their demands in lieu of some achievable bonuses.

As such, Liverpool are reportedly growing in confidence that a deal will soon be announced. And the Reds hope he will follow on from Fabio Carvalho in becoming their second signing of the summer.

Calvin Ramsay signing another smart Liverpool signing

Now pundit Noel Whelan has congratulated Liverpool for another piece of shrewd business ahead of the announcement for Ramsay.

The Reds squad has very few chinks in its armour. However, a lack of cover at right-back was one of them.

Jurgen Klopp has played Joe Gomez there when needed of late. And while he has performed admirably, he is clearly better suited to playing as a centre-half.

Assessing the potential deal, Whelan told Football Insider why it’s another shrewd capture by Liverpool.

“I think this is where they’re covering the bases,” Whelan said.

“Looking for that another right-back in case Trent can’t go the full season. It’s very difficult to go a full season without any kind of suspension or injury.

“I think they’re doing the right thing and covering bases and doing it very, very quick.

“He’s one for the future as well. He’s not just a two-year contract. This young man will be signing a four to five-year contract, keeping him there and growing that team.”

Liverpool, meanwhile, could more than cover the fee needed for Ramsay by offloading the unwanted Nat Phillips. He moved to Bournemouth in January on loan, with the Reds now naming his price were the move to become permanent.