Ben Woodburn is closing in on a loan move from Liverpool to Hearts, with the Scottish Premiership club's manager confirming as much.

The Lowdown: Woodburn requires fresh challenge

The 21-year-old burst onto the scene at Anfield, becoming the club's youngest-ever goalscorer back in 2016, but he has only made 11 first team appearances overall.

Breaking into Liverpool's team has been extremely difficult, such is the quality at Jurgen Klopp's disposal, and Woodburn has been loaned out to the likes of Sheffield United, Oxford United and Blackpool.

The Wales international has been linked with a move to Hearts this summer and a key update has emerged in that respect.

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The Latest: Hearts move imminent

Their manager Robbie Neilson has confirmed that Woodburn is on the verge of joining the Edinburgh club on loan, with the deal expected to be completed imminently. He said:

"It’s been authorised by Liverpool.

"It is just a case of getting him up and getting him ready. I am delighted."

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The Verdict: Good move for youngster

Woodburn is a talented player who can go on to enjoy a good career, but ultimately his long-term future lies away from Liverpool.

A certain calibre of player is required to succeed in this current Reds team - there are world-class footballers throughout the squad, from Virgil van Dijk to Mohamed Salah - and the Welshman isn't at that level.

Woodburn could enjoy a fruitful time of things at Hearts, though, and it would probably be beneficial for all parties if his loan move eventually became a permanent one.

In other news, some Liverpool fans have been left fuming at a James Pearce tweet. Read more here.