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Liverpool may have another academy battle on their hands, with highly-rated winger Joshua Abe attracting growing attention from elsewhere. There have been bubbling reports this year suggesting a number of elite clubs are closely tracking the 15-year-old’s progress and sounding out whether he could eventually be tempted away from Kirkby.
Manchester City and Chelsea have both been mentioned as admirers, while previous links to Arsenal and even Real Madrid underline just how big the queue is becoming for his signature.
Inside the AXA Training Centre, however, Abe is regarded as one of the brightest talents of his age group anywhere in Europe. The left-footed right winger has already trained with Arne Slot’s first team and is starring for the under-18s, hitting a flurry of goals and assists despite only turning 15 in July.
Liverpool staff are said to be excited by his pace, direct dribbling and confidence in one-v-one situations, and there is a clear pathway mapped out for him if he chooses to commit his long-term future to the club.
The situation has become even more intriguing off the pitch. Abe recently signed with PLG, the agency co-owned by Trent Alexander-Arnold’s brother, which also represents high-profile names such as Alexander-Arnold, Andy Robertson and Jarrod Bowen. The move has sparked debate among supporters, with some fearing a repeat of the saga that saw Trent himself move closer to Real Madrid, but others viewing it as a sign that Liverpool’s inner circle still has influence over the youngster’s career path.
Now James Pearce of the Athletic has confirmed the reports, stating that Abe’s future is uncertain as he is yet to commit to scholarship terms with the Anfield club – and named the 1st of a June as a potentially important date in determining Abe’s future at the club:
“His future beyond this season is currently uncertain as he has yet to accept Liverpool’s offer of a scholarship. Their Premier League rivals are understood to be keeping a close eye on the situation given that if there’s still no agreement by June 1, then he will be free to speak to other clubs.”
“Multiple sources, who spoke to The Athletic on condition of anonymity to protect their positions, confirmed that talks are ongoing as Liverpool attempt to convince Abe to stay.”
“Other elite clubs are prepared to offer more guaranteed riches, but Liverpool hope the clearer pathway they set out for Abe will hold sway. Training with the first team is all part of that charm offensive.”
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