Signed on an unusual two-year loan last summer, Javier Manquillo could see his time at Liverpool end early, with the club looking to cancel his deal.
Spanish right-back Javier Manquillo could be set to return to parent club Atletico Madrid this summer, with Liverpool looking to cancel his two-year loan early.
The 21-year-old made 19 appearances for the Reds last season, but is now surplus to requirements following the arrival of £12.5 million Southampton right-back Nathaniel Clyne.
Andy Hunter of the Guardian writes: “Despite the departure of Glen Johnson and Jon Flanagan’s injury problems, the club are considering releasing the Spanish youngster midway through his loan deal.
“Andre Wisdom, another rival for Manquillo’s position, recently signed a new four-year contract at Anfield.
“Liverpool need to reach agreement with both Manquillo and Atlético to end the defender’s stay this summer and have not reached that stage yet.
“But the exit of the Under-21 Spain international is being explored as Liverpool, having made six signings so far this summer, look to trim the squad.”
Manquillo’s fade into the periphery in 2015 was a bizarre one, given his strong performances in the first half of the 2014/15 season.
He made just three appearances after the turn of the year, with both of his starts coming in the FA Cup against lower-league opposition.
Manquillo also came on as a substitute in February’s Europa League second-leg loss to Besiktas.
Extending Wisdom’s contract and terminating Manquillo’s deal does make financial sense for the club.
But it is a shame to see Liverpool exile the closest they’ve come to a replacement for defensive specialist Alvaro Arbeloa since his departure to Real Madrid.
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