What should Liverpool do with Harry Wilson?

The curious case of Harry Wilson has been a hotly debated topic in recent times, with many Liverpool fans at loggerheads over what should be done with the Welsh winger.

A product of the Reds' Youth Academy, the 23-year-old is yet to feature in a league appearance for the first-team and has instead endured four separate loan spells away from the club.

However, the 2020/21 season could be make-or-break for Wilson, as he looks to establish himself as Premier League regular.

Loans, Loans and more Loans

After joining Liverpool as a member of the Under-9s squad, The Wrexham-born youngster went on to impress staff members throughout his development years in the academy.

His first move away from the club came in 2015 when Wilson joined then-League One side Crewe Alexandra for four months.

This was followed by a new contract from his parent club, before going on to become Liverpool Academy Players' Player of the Year in the 2017–18 season.

Despite his promising progression, manager Jurgen Klopp opted to send Wilson out on loan to the Championship, where he represented both Hull City and Derby County over an 18-month period.

It was under the guidance of Chelsea manager Frank Lampard at the Pride Park stadium where Wilson really came to light, scoring 18 times in 49 appearances during the 2018/19 campaign.

Liverpool fans paid close attention to his performances for the Ram's, watching on as the loanee scored a wonderful free-kick against arch-rivals Manchester United in the EFL Cup.

Many believed that due to his inspired displays in the tier below, Wilson had emerged himself into Klopp's plans for the 2019/20 campaign, however, the winger was once again shipped out on a temporary basis.

Impressing under Eddie Howe

Instead of another year in the Championship, Wilson was presented with the chance to shine in England's top division, after Bournemouth manager Eddie Howe secured his services for the current season.

The Welshman appeared in 23 league appearances before the nation's football came to a complete standstill, scoring 6 goals in that time.

Despite the respectable goal return, however, his last strike came back in November, and he has failed to score in any competitions since the turn of the year.

Furthermore, Wilson has produced a grand total of zero Premier League assists so far, which is a huge worry for a winger fighting for his future at Anfield.

Does he have a future on Merseyside?

Back in December of last year, Klopp assured Wilson that he had future plans for him, saying: "All the players we sent on loan have the chance to make it in the first team; otherwise we would have sold them."

The German was also quick to praise the shooting ability of the Bournemouth loanee, and stated that Wilson was sent down South to gain some valuable top-level experience.

It is no secret that Liverpool boast one of the best front three attacks in world football, however, some added depth out wide would be welcomed at the European champions.

Xherdan Shaqiri has struggled to stay fit over the past few months, whilst both Takumi Minamino and Divock Origi make more of an impact in the centre, so Wilson may just be what is needed.

Furthermore, the Reds have struggled for a set-piece specialist since the departure of Phillipe Coutinho, and Wilson's left foot could certainly help fill the void.

However, with upcoming youngsters Curtis Jones, Harvey Elliot and Rhian Brewster among the ranks, Wilson could once again be shipped out of the first-team picture, with a permanent move well and truly on the cards.

At the age of 23, regular game time might just be what Harry Wilson needs in his career, and it is unsure whether he will ever get that at Anfield.

Liverpool fans would also be able to put their trust in Sporting Director Michael Edwards to get the best possible deal for the club, as past negotiations under his stewardship has seen the Reds pocket a cool £19m and £15m for Dominic Solanke and Jordon Ibe respectively.

It remains to be seen where Harry Wilson will end up plying his trade in September, although the general census among Liverpool supporters is that the club should look to cash in before it's too late.