Liverpool completes first transfer deal of Slot era as another exit confirmed

Liverpool has confirmed defender Calvin Ramsay will join Wigan Athletic on loan next season in the first transfer departure under Arne Slot.

With the Premier League transfer window set to open on June 14, the Reds will no doubt be busy as they embark on a new era at Anfield. New sporting director Richard Hughes will lead the club’s business, with reports indicating he could offload some fringe players in order to make room for upgrades on the current squad.

Liverpool confirmed earlier today that it was releasing 10 players, including Joel Matip and Thiago Alcantara. Veteran goalkeeper Adrian, meanwhile, has been offered a new deal.

READ MORE: Gareth Southgate could finally take Jurgen Klopp advice after Trent Alexander-Arnold talks

READ MORE: Liverpool has 23 transfer ‘targets’ to keep a close eye on at Euro 2024

Despite the transfer window not opening for another nine days, the Reds have nevertheless completed their first deal of the summer, with Ramsay heading back out on loan with Wigan next season.

The right-back joined Liverpool back in 2022 from Aberdeen, but after making two appearances in his debut campaign at Anfield, he had his season cut short by injury. Ramsay subsequently spent time on loan with Championship side Preston at the start of 2023/24, before ending the season with Bolton Wanderers.

The Scot will be back in League One next season, with Liverpool having agreed a year-long loan with Wigan ahead of the forthcoming season. Speaking about his move, Ramsay told Wigan’s website: “I am over the moon. It happened quickly and I met the manager (Shaun Maloney) two weeks ago.

“I had a really good conversation, and there was an instant connection. I’m excited for the start of the season.

“When I was driving to the training ground, there was a real excitement, and I am hungry to get going and show everyone what I can do. It’s a good opportunity at a good club, and I am raring to go.”

Liverpool.com says: Best of luck to Ramsay next season at Wigan. He certainly deserves a change in fortunes, having had his development severely hampered by injury since making the move to Liverpool.

With Conor Bradley now established as Trent Alexander-Arnold’s deputy at right-back, a loan move makes the most sense for Ramsay if he is to eventually force his way into Arne Slot’s plans. Having made just six appearances in total in 2023/24, hopefully he will enjoy much more success next season.