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TORONTO, Canada—As was reported earlier by The Athletic’s Joshua Kloke, Toronto FC will be adding some depth at the back.
The club announced today that 21-year-old Liverpool FC defender Tony Gallacher will be joining TFC on loan ahead of their next phase of games, which is set to kickoff on Sept. 19.
“Tony is a young, promising defender that will provide us with additional depth on our backline for the remainder of the year,” said Toronto FC General Manager Ali Curtis. “We feel his character and personality will fit well within our group.”
Gallacher is already in Toronto quarantining and is expected to join the Reds ahead of their next match on Sept. 19 against D.C. United at Audi Field.
Gallacher has 32 matches under his belt for Liverpool’s U-23 squad, making 15 Premier League 2 appearances last season at either left-back or right-back. He’s also made a senior appearance for Jurgen Klopp’s side, in the EFL Cup against Aston Villa.
The youngster has also made several appearances for the Scottish Youth National Team across various levels but has yet to breakthrough with the senior side.
Prior to signing with Liverpool in 2018, the Scotland youth international had previously attracted attention from the likes of Manchester United and Stoke City, according to reports.
The Reds, currently in second place in the Eastern Conference—two points behind the Columbus Crew—had Justin Morrow, Richie Laryea, and Auro Jr. occupying the majority of playing time at the fullback positions. With Laryea showing he’s capable of playing higher up the pitch, perhaps Gallacher moves into Richie’s spot in the rotation, while the Canadian competes for playing time down the left wing.