Stefan Bajcetic facing career-defining decision after Liverpool loan transfer exit

The convince Stefan Bajcetic to switch his soccer allegiance from Spain to Serbia.

Despite being born in Spain and representing the country at U18 level, and earning a call-up to the U21s last September, has . This has limited his appearances for Santi Denia's side to just one cap.

But if he is left out of Denia's squad on Friday, Spanish publication AS reports that Serbia will attempt to persuade him to change his national allegiance. Bajcetic, whose father Srdan played for Celta Vigo, Red Star Belgrade and Braga, is eligible to play for Serbia.

Since FIFA laws allow players who have only represented a country at U21 level to switch allegiances, Bajcetic could potentially play for Serbia. After reuniting with former Liverpool assistant manager Pep Lijnders at Salzburg, where he is currently on loan, Bajcetic has made 10 appearances for the Austrian team, including three Champions League games.

Despite missing Salzburg's 3-1 victory over Feyenoord due to illness, ex-Liverpool midfielder Bobby Clark played the full match, contributing to Salzburg's first European triumph of the season.

"I would like to win the league and impress in the Champions League too with my new team," Bajcetic said after joining Salzburg in August. "An important reason for my move is that Salzburg have focused on developing young players for many years - it's a club with lots of potential. Pep Lijnders, who I know from Liverpool and value, is the perfect coach for that. I am looking forward to it all."

Salzburg is one of the most successful clubs in Austrian soccer, having won 17 league titles. Yet the team finished second in the table last season behind Sturm Graz.

Bajcetic, meanwhile, is trying to rebuild his career after making just 3 appearances for Liverpool last season. The midfielder enjoyed a breakthrough season during the 2022-23 campaign - playing 11 times - and remains one of Liverpool's brightest prospects.