Man Utd tried to sign Bajcetic before he joined Liverpool as 'key' to Anfield move revealed

Manchester United reportedly attempted to sign Liverpool starlet Stefan Bajcetic before he moved to Anfield in 2020.

Bajcetic starred in the Reds' 2-0 Merseyside derby win over Everton on Monday, being named as Player of the Match by Sky Sports' Jamie Carragher.

The Spain youth international has played an increasingly important role for Jurgen Klopp's side since the conclusion of the World Cup, and has started the last five matches in midfield.

But his performance at Anfield on Friday was perhaps his most accomplished yet, as he regularly broke up play and produced several key tackles to cut out Everton attacks.

Klopp reserved praise for the 18-year-old in his post-match interview, stating: "We are really happy with him. A top boy, really smart and calm. He played in a new position, at eight, and I asked him afterwards if he liked it and he said yes. It is a nice story."

But Bajcetic could have ended up playing for Liverpool's fierce rivals, had they fully acted on their interest in the young Spaniard.

Liverpool star almost signed for Man Utd

The Athletic's Caoimhe O'Neill reported in December 2020 that Liverpool had completed the signing of Bajcetic, having scouted him throughout the previous year.

The then 16-year-old joined the club in January 2021 from Celta Vigo, and began life at the club playing for their youth teams.

It was claimed that they had to fend off interest from United to land his signature. The Reds did this by convincing the youngster that a move to Anfield, over the pathway offered by United, was the best for the player, with academy director Alex Inglethorpe and U23 coach Barry Lewtas, who is now the side's manager, said to be involved in discussions.

Bajcetic's acquistion, for just £250,000, and subsequent rise to the first team could save the Reds millions in the transfer market, with the young Spaniard potentially able to play a key role in Klopp's side for years to come.