Leighton Clarkson has claimed he turned down a new contract at Liverpool as he sought a move this summer.
The 21-year-old was interviewed by The Athletic following his move to Aberdeen.
There have already been some high-profile departures from Anfield in this transfer window.
Roberto Firmino, Naby Keita, James Milner and Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain have all moved on.
Liverpool have already started to rebuild with the signing of world champion Alexis Mac Allister. In addition to several experienced professionals, young midfielder Leighton Clarkson also made the trip.
The England Under-20 international has made several first-team appearances during his time at Anfield.
However, Clarkson said he turned down a contract to stay at Liverpool this summer.
Instead, he signed for Aberdeen after a highly successful season with the Dons last year.
Clarkson says he turned down Liverpool deal
On the decision to join Aberdeen, Clarkson said: “I had a contract I could have signed (at Liverpool) but I just felt it was time to move on and go somewhere else. and start making my name known instead of leaving.” each time borrowed. “I’d rather be somewhere where I play week after week.”
Liverpool had high hopes for Clarkson but in the end he never made it to the first team.
Jurgen Klopp had previously compared him to Philipp Lahm due to his style of play at the base of midfield.
Clarkson’s teammates at Aberdeen begged Liverpool not to recall Clarkson during his loan spell.
He was praised for his behavior when called up to train with the Liverpool senior team, but he failed to fully break into the squad.
This is hardly a surprise as Liverpool have some very talented young midfielders. Curtis Jones and Harvey Elliott are both in the England Under-21s after successful campaigns.
Stefan Bajcetic also had a brilliant breakaway season before injury limited his involvement.
Liverpool may be disappointed that Clarkson has turned down a new contract with the club.
He has a lot of potential and thrived at Aberdeen last season.
However, moving forward now could be the better decision for the player than spending another season on loan.
