Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool are known to keep a strict wage structure and the offers to academy stars are no different. Liverpool have reaped the benefits from a well-run academy for years, with the system producing the likes of Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, Jarell Quansah and Conor Bradley for the first team in recent years.
Meanwhile, Liverpool are set to pour a huge £20 million into revamping their Kirkby academy training base, underlining just how central youth development is to the club’s future. The project, targeted for completion by 2028, will deliver a full‑size indoor pitch under a new dome linked to the existing complex, alongside upgraded medical, gym and sports science facilities.
A new 500‑seat stand and natural‑grass show pitch will transform matchdays for the under‑age sides and bring Liverpool’s academy infrastructure up to true elite level.
It’s all part of the club’s vision of continuing to produce first-team level talents from the academy. One youngster tipped for a big future at Liverpool or elsewhere is Joshua Abe.
The Reds are facing a battle on their hands to keep the 15-year-old. 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 so far this term. Both Chelsea and Manchester City are believed to be keen on the teenager.
However, the Athletic has reported that Liverpool will not break their wage structure to try and keep Abe at the club, with James Pearce revealing the max they will offer Abe and other first-year professionals is £52,000 a year unless exceptions are made:
“Liverpool had to beat off competition from Manchester City before Abe signed for their under-nines. He’s always been regarded by coaches as the most gifted in his age group and now they are facing another battle to keep him as interest in him cranks up.”
“Scholars earn a standard amount of around £1,200 per month, but discussions with Liverpool are also centred on what he can expect to earn from his first professional contract when he turns 17 in July 2027.”
“Liverpool currently limit most of their first-year pros to a basic salary of around £52,000 a year plus bonuses, but there are exceptions to the rule. It’s a policy designed to reward progress and keep youngsters hungry and driven.”
Want to get the latest Liverpool news direct to your phone? Join our WhatsApp community by clicking here.