Speaking to Liverpool’s official website, Ryan Kent has confirmed that he is open to spending the 2017/18 campaign away from Anfield on-loan.
Kent is attracting interest from across the Sky Bet Championship, with Middlesbrough, Leeds United and Hull City all linked with a move for the Premier League winger.
Liverpool were waiting for Kent to sign a new contract at Anfield before deciding where he will play his football next season.
After committing his long-term future to Liverpool, the 20-year-old spoke about his hopes for the 2017/18 campaign, he said: “It’s about getting game time, whether that’s here or on loan.
“Wherever I am, I want to be among the team and don’t want to halt my progression as a player. If that means going on loan to get game time, then that’s what it’ll be.”
Kent has spent time away from Anfield on-loan during the last two seasons, with Coventry City and Barnsley, where he played in both League One and the Championship.
During his time with Coventry, Kent made 17 League One appearances.
However, the 20-year-old excelled in the Championship last season for Barnsley, featuring in 44 of their 46 Championship fixtures, scoring three goals and helping Paul Heckingbottom’s side finish comfortably in mid-table.
There is known interest in Kent from Boro, Leeds and Hull, but according to Alan Nixon, around half the Championship are looking to sign the Liverpool youngster on-loan this summer.
So far, the winger has made just one senior appearance for Liverpool.
The Verdict
Kent’s comments are not surprising, with the winger clearly keen to build on the experience he has gained over the last 18-months.
A move back into the Championship would be perfect for the player to continue his development, particularly if that is to a club who are competing for promotion.
The 20-year-old has impressed on Liverpool’s pre-season tour, and looks far more creative this year, than he did last year when he joined Barnsley.
Where do you think Kent will be playing his football next season? Let us know your thoughts!