Image Credits: Imago Images
The winter transfer window may have slammed shut, but Premier League clubs are far from resting on their laurels. Behind the scenes, recruitment teams continue working around the clock, identifying and laying the groundwork for the next generation of talent. It’s a relentless process that never truly stops, with scouts scouring academies across Europe and beyond for players who could become the future.
One name currently generating buzz is Phoenix Blayney, a 15-year-old goalkeeper from Northern Ireland who has been turning heads at Premier League clubs.
According to recent reports, Blayney has spent the past month on trials at both Arsenal and Liverpool . During his time with the Gunners, the youngster trained with the U18s and even joined the U16s on their trip to Germany to face Bayern Munich and Eintracht Frankfurt . At Liverpool, Blayney trained with both the U15s and U16s.
This isn’t the young keeper’s first taste of elite-level football. Blayney has previously been on trial at Arsenal on two other occasions and has also trialled with Nottingham Forest . He has additionally visited Brighton’s stadium and academy complex, demonstrating the widespread interest in his potential.
Blayney currently plays for Larne FC’s U18s in Northern Ireland and is part of the Irish FA’s elite JD Academy programme. Football runs deep in his blood – his father is former Northern Ireland international goalkeeper Alan Blayney, who earned five caps for his country between 2006 and 2011 .
Despite being just 15, Phoenix has already represented Northern Ireland at U14, U15, U16, and U17 level.
READ MORE: Premier League Tribunal rules how much Liverpool pay for Rio Ngumoha
Phoenix Blayney has had a couple of weeks to remember, spending time on trial at Premier League sides Arsenal and Liverpool 🏴🔴
Congratulations Phoenix and keep up the great work 👏#WeAreLarne #ForTheTown pic.twitter.com/r2lRNIhaXn
— Larne FC Academy (@larnefcacademy) February 5, 2026
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.