Liverpool's Luke Chambers 'turns down' Championship clubs to re-join Wigan

Liverpool's 1-0 win over Real Betis in the early hours of Saturday morning was yet another opportunity for the Reds' youngsters to impress new head coach Arne Slot.

With many of the side's Euros and Copa America stars yet to return to the fold, the side which took to the field during the second half of the clash at the Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh more closely resembled an Academy side.

One player who looked assured during his cameo was young defender Luke Chambers. However, if reports are to be believed, the 20-year-old is set to leave the club once the current US Tour is over.

Chambers set to return to Wigan

According to reports from the Daily Mail's Lewis Steele, Chambers is on the brink of finalising a loan move to Wigan Athletic. However, he will first have the opportunity to impress Slot for the remainder of the club's time in the United States.

Steele revealed on social media platform X: “Luke Chambers close to re-joining League One Wigan on loan. Some Championship clubs were keen but a return to the Latics seen as best for his development. He will feature in Liverpool’s pre-season tour before joining.”

Chambers, who spent the latter half of last season on loan at Wigan, made a significant impact during his 18 appearances, even scoring his first professional goal against Portsmouth.

During his time with the Latics, he predominantly played as the left-sided centre-back in a back three. This versatility has continued into pre-season with Liverpool, where he featured as a centre-back.

Despite interest from higher-tier clubs, the decision to return to the Latics was seen as beneficial for his continued growth.

“He rejected a bit of Championship interest to go to Wigan just out of loyalty, because he was there last season,” Steele added.

A January recall possible

Liverpool are currently evaluating the futures of several young players as they prepare for the upcoming season. The win against Real Betis showcased the depth of talent within the squad, with 13 players aged 21 or under featuring in the match.

Among these prospects, some, like Trey Nyoni, are expected to remain with the first team, while others, like Chambers, will benefit from loan spells to gain valuable first-team experience.

The 20-year-old defender, who made four senior appearances for Liverpool last season, follows in the footsteps of his teammate, Calvin Ramsay, who also joined the Latics on a temporary basis earlier this summer.

While a breakthrough at Anfield this season seems unlikely, Liverpool are believed to envision a potential mid-season recall and subsequent loan to a higher level if Chambers excels at Wigan.

Before then, with captain Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate still not back from Euro 2024 duty, the youngster could still feature against Arsenal in Philadephia in the early hours of Thursday morning.