Liverpool FC have approved the sale of winger Jordon Ibe to AFC Bournemouth, after accepting an offer in the region of £15million by the Cherries.

Ibe has now been given permission to allow his agent to negotiate contract terms with the fellow Premier League side, with a view to a permanent deal this summer.

Ibe to be a surprise exit from Merseyside

Whilst it was always accepted that Liverpool's squad would have to be trimmed this summer, due to the lack of European football on offer next season, it will be a surprise to see the 20-year-old leave for the South Coast.

Ibe has always been hailed as a promising youngster ever since his move from Wycombe Wanderers as a 15-year-old, making a total of 58 appearances for the Reds in the last five years.

Winger failed to build on initial impressions

When Raheem Sterling was sold to Manchester City next summer, Ibe - of a similar age and position - was hailed as his natural replacement, following some glittering performances towards the back end of the 2014/15 season, having been recalled from his loan at Derby County by Brendan Rodgers.

Unfortunately, despite having a good relationship with new Reds boss Jürgen Klopp, Ibe failed to live up to that potential last season, leaving Liverpool to accept a substantial bid for his services.

Ibe suffered a frustrating 2015/16 season, struggling for form (photo: Getty)
Ibe suffered a frustrating 2015/16 season, struggling for form (photo: Getty)

Should he choose to stay on Merseyside, he'll undoubtedly face tough competition for places, with the likes of Sadio Mane, Lazar Markovic and Sheyi Ojo all battling for a spot out wide in Klopp's team.

Ibe's sale is likely to be the first of many at Liverpool over the coming weeks, with Crystal Palace said to be closing in on a move for Christian Benteke, whilst Lucas Leiva, Martin Skrtel and Mario Balotelli could all also be on their way out.

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