Lazar Marković Set to Remain at Liverpool

The Turkish transfer deadline passed at midnight on Friday and Lazar Marković doesn’t seem any closer to heading back to Fenerbahce (this year). The 23-year-old winger has not clocked any time at all for Liverpool since July’s pre-season friendly against Tranmere Rovers and was sorely in need of a transfer that would give him the minutes he needs to keep developing.

Liverpool bought Marković for about £20 million in July 2014 from Benfica, but the player has had a disappointing showing at Liverpool and has spent the last two years on loan to Fenerbahce, Hull City, and Sporting CP. Marković spent the majority of his time in Turkey injured and only scored two goals in 21 total appearances for Fenerbahce, but the club needed the extra attackers this season and a loan would have been optimal for everyone.

But the lack of a move may end up working out for Marković.

While Marković hasn’t had a first team game since May 2015, the Reds will be competing in the Premier League, the Champions League, and the FA Cup this season and may need the extra depth that Marković could provide. Marković is not eligible for the Champions League, but was named in Liverpool’s Premier League squad and will also be eligible for the FA Cup.

The Portuguese transfer window is still open, of course, but Liverpool may gamble on keeping the winger for now. Marković is still incredibly young and will be keen to take any opportunities he can to prove himself to Klopp. If Liverpool end up in an injury crisis again, having the player around may just end up being what the club needs.