Image Credits: Imago Images
Liverpool’s academy pathway has rarely felt more crowded, and the knock-on effects are starting to be felt well beyond Kirkby. With the first team in the midst of a long-term rebuild and a raft of highly rated youngsters competing for the same positions, even some of the most promising names are being forced into big decisions earlier than expected in their careers.
For one England youth international, that has meant accepting that the next chapter of his journey will have to be written away from Merseyside.
England youth defender Liam Balmer has confirmed that he will leave Liverpool at the end of the season, with a move to Leeds United lined up as his next destination.
The 16-year-old full-back has been in the Reds’ system since the under-nine level, spending nine years at the club and working his way through the ranks before breaking into the England youth setup. Balmer, who can operate on either flank but is primarily seen as a right-back, announced his decision on Instagram, thanking staff, teammates and supporters, and describing his time at Liverpool as a chapter he will “leave behind” as he moves on to a new challenge:
“After 9 years at this club, i will be leaving at the end of the season,” he wrote.
“Thank you to everyone at the club who has worked with me to this point. I’ve made friends that i will have for life and experiences that will live with me forever. It’s time for me to move on to another chapter and leave this one behind.”
“Thank you to everyone who has supported me throughout my journey. YNWA”
Leeds are expected to be the beneficiaries of that decision, with multiple reports indicating that Balmer has agreed to join the Yorkshire club at the end of the current campaign. The teenager has effectively rubber-stamped the switch by reposting a story from talent scout outlet The Talent Hunter stating that he will sign for the Whites, a move that will see him link up with the club’s academy set-up at Thorp Arch
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