This news, which surfaced recently, is the last thing Reds supporters wanted to hear as they brace for the 2025-26 Premier League season, with their team coming off a title-winning campaign under manager Arne Slot. The potential departure of these young stars could disrupt Liverpool’s squad depth and raise questions about the club’s transfer strategy, despite their recent success.
Tyler Morton, a 22-year-old midfielder, has long been regarded as a promising talent from Liverpool’s academy. Having signed a long-term deal with the club in January 2023, Morton has gained valuable experience through loan spells at Blackburn Rovers and Hull City, where he earned praise for his composure, vision, and versatility in midfield. His performances, including being named EFL Young Player of the Month during his time at Hull, have showcased his potential to become a regular in the Premier League.
However, with Liverpool’s midfield already stacked with established stars like Ryan Gravenberch, Alexis Mac Allister, Dominik Szoboszlai, and Curtis Jones, Morton has struggled to secure consistent first-team minutes at Anfield. This lack of playing time has reportedly made him a target for West Ham, who see him as a key addition to bolster their midfield and inject youth into their squad under manager Graham Potter.
Similarly, Harvey Elliott, also 22, is another academy graduate who has shown immense promise but has found his role limited at Liverpool. Despite his undeniable talent and affinity for the club, Elliott has been restricted to just 189 Premier League minutes across 14 substitute appearances last season, a source of personal frustration for the young attacking midfielder.
His versatility, work rate, and ability to create chances have made him a fan favorite, but the depth in Liverpool’s squad has hindered his path to a starting role. West Ham’s interest in Elliott aligns with their ambition to rebuild their squad with dynamic, young players who can contribute immediately while also offering long-term potential.
West Ham’s pursuit of Morton and Elliott is part of a broader strategy under Potter, who took over from Julen Lopetegui in January 2025 after a disappointing campaign left the Hammers languishing in 14th place. Potter, known for his ability to develop young talent during his time at Brighton, is reportedly keen to reshape the squad to compete for European places.
The Hammers have already made moves in the transfer market, with recent signings like Japanese goalkeeper Zion Suzuki and Spanish midfielder Carlos Soler, but the potential double swoop for Morton and Elliott would be a significant statement of intent.
Sources suggest that West Ham’s interest in these players has been longstanding, with Morton previously linked to the club in January 2025, and negotiations now appear to be accelerating.
For Liverpool, losing both players could be a blow, especially as they look to defend their Premier League title and compete in the Champions League.
While the club’s self-sustaining financial model relies on player sales to fund new signings, the departure of two academy products who have yet to reach their peak could spark discontent among fans.
Morton’s potential move is particularly concerning, as he represents a homegrown talent who could thrive with regular game time, while Elliott’s creativity and flair are qualities that could be missed in a long, grueling season.
However, Liverpool’s management may view these transfers as an opportunity to raise funds for high-profile targets, with names like Newcastle’s Alexander Isak and other attacking options reportedly on their radar.
The talks between West Ham and Liverpool are said to be advanced, with the Hammers banking on the funds from a potential sale of star player Mohammed Kudus to finance their ambitious transfer plans.
Kudus, who has attracted interest from Liverpool and other top clubs, could fetch upwards of £60 million, providing West Ham with the resources to secure both Morton and Elliott.
While no final agreements have been confirmed, the prospect of these transfers has left Liverpool fans anxious, as they fear losing two players who embody the club’s youth development ethos.
As the transfer window progresses, the coming days will be crucial in determining whether these deals come to fruition. For West Ham, landing Morton and Elliott would signal a bold step toward rebuilding a competitive squad.
For Liverpool, however, the potential exits could test the patience of supporters who have grown accustomed to seeing their academy talents shine at Anfield. The situation remains fluid, but the news has undeniably cast a shadow over what has otherwise been a triumphant period for the Reds.
