Teen star Bajcetic signs long-term Liverpool contract as Reds kickstart rebuild

Spanish teenager Stefan Bajcetic has signed a new long-term contract with Liverpool five days after making his first Premier League start.

The 18-year-old has signed a new deal until 2027 having broken into the side this season, with Saturday's start against Chelsea at Anfield his 10th appearance in all competitions.

Bajcetic also scored his first senior goal in the 3-1 win at Aston Villa on Boxing Day, and impressed in last week's FA Cup third round replay away at Wolves.

His emergence has seen him challenge the likes of Jordan Henderson and Fabinho for a central midfield berth in recent months, with his energy and aggression in the role proving valuable to Klopp while several of his senior stars struggle this season.

Bajcetic, who signed from Celta Vigo in December 2020 for just over £200,000 has been rewarded for his elevation to the first-time, and was delighted to seal the new deal.

"Obviously I'm so, so happy, so excited to keep playing for this club and hopefully I can play more years together," he said.

"Me and my family are very proud to sign a new contract with this club.

"It feels amazing. It's something I've been dreaming of in these two years I've been here and something that I've been working hard [for] as well."

"It's crazy. "A year ago I was playing U18s football and now I've started some games, made my debut and even scored a goal - that was something I never expected to happen this year.

"It's amazing to see how fast it went. But I keep working hard and hopefully [there are] more things to come."

Klopp had heaped praise on the youngster this season, including after the cup win at Wolves.

"Good player, very smart in his movements," he said.

"Especially the younger you are, the more important it is that you have a good start in the game.

"He had a few situations where I am not sure he saw there was space or he just hoped there was space when he turned - and there was actually space. He did really well, but what helps really is that he wins these challenges.

"The last few steps before he has to block the ball, that's really good. Having then Thiago next to him is, I think, pretty helpful."