Liverpool youngster helps secure nominal transfer fee for 'big talent'

Billy Koumetio has left Liverpool for Dundee in a permanent transfer as he aims to live up to the lofty expectations set for him by Jurgen Klopp.

The central defender arrived in England from French side Orleans in 2018, starting out with the Reds' academy and quickly stood out by turning in a series of impressive displays.

So much so that he caught the eye of former Liverpool manager Klopp as he started a pre-season victory over Blackpool in the summer of 2020 and was described as a 'big talent' despite making an error which resulted in a goal.

A few months later, Koumetio made his competitive senior debut for the Merseyside giants as he replaced Fabinho in the UEFA Champions League clash against FC Midtjylland.

However, that would turn out to be his sole first-team appearance for Liverpool. And after failing to impress in subsequent loan spells with Austria Wien, Dunkerque and Blackburn Rovers, it became clear that his long-term future was away from Anfield.

So after signing a two-year contract with the Scottish Premiership outfit, Koumetio revealed a conversation with Owen Beck - who has enjoyed a couple of loan spells at Dens Park - helped convince him to make the switch, thus securing a nominal fee for Liverpool in the process.

"It feels very good to join the club, I am really happy to be here" he told the club's official website.

"I believe and have the conviction that this is the best step in my career. I had discussions with the manager, Liverpool and my agent and once we reached an agreement everything went through.

Welcome Billy Koumetio! pic.twitter.com/qwyCnHueb2

— Dundee Football Club (@DundeeFC) August 9, 2024

Koumetio reveals Beck influence

"I discussed with the manager how he wants to play and how he wants me to play and how I can improve as a player.

"I spoke with Owen Beck about his time at Dundee and he loved it, everything he said about the club was so positive. All the Liverpool lads all saw how Dundee helped develop Owen.

"I can’t wait to play in front of the Dundee fans, I love the support that the supporters give, they help us so much to play."