Liverpool and Everton are in pursuit of one of the country’s top young talents in the shape of Wigan Athletic’s Joe Gelhardt and are preparing imminent bids for his capture, according to ESPN.
The media publication has revealed that along with the Reds, the 16-year-old striker is also attracting interest from fierce Premier League rivals Manchester United.
Gelhardt has come through the levels with the England national side and is a key fixture in the Latics under-18 youth team, with the north west club reluctant to let him go this summer.
The 16-year-old is deemed one of the best of his age group where he scores freely and regularly for his team.
Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp has a wealth of experience of blooding youngsters into his sides with Trent Alexander-Arnold one such player to have made the step up to the first-team under the German manager.
Good move for Liverpool?
It is not likely that should a move to Anfield come off that it would benefit Klopp’s side now.
At 16, it is probably more the case that he will be brought into the side and loaned back out or made a part of the Reds youth set-up.
With Manchester United and Everton both also keen, it would be a huge coup to land the forward ahead of the two clubs but Klopp can show Gelhardt that he is will be given a chance at Anfield, something which Jose Mourinho could not promise.
This is Futbol verdict: 8/10
Likely to happen?
The wonderkid has plenty of options and the world at his feet it would seem, but Liverpool are an attractive option under the guidance of Klopp and are going places.
Gelhardt fits the young and dynamic mould the Anfield club are building and while he is one for the future, the Champions League finalists will be wanting to ensure his future is in the red half of Merseyside and not the blue.
This is Futbol verdict: 6/10