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Arsenal and Liverpool could yet go head-to-head in the transfer market this summer, with both clubs weighing moves for Bradley Barcola, while Aston Villa’s Morgan Rogers appears to be Arsenal’s priority for now.
Liverpool fans will also hope Andoni Iraola can ensure the Reds are battling Arsenal at the top of the table next season as well as in the chase for emerging talent.
That narrative has now been sharpened by fresh reports from Mexico and England suggesting both clubs have trained their sights on Gilberto Mora after his breakout World Cup performances.
Mora is a 17‑year‑old attacking midfielder at Club Tijuana who exploded onto the global stage at the 2026 World Cup, becoming the youngest player ever to represent Mexico at the tournament and later starting in the knockout rounds.
It was reported earlier this week that Liverpool would be willing to pay the release clause of Mora. But it now appears Arsenal are attempting to win the race and are willing to accelerate the deal.
Mexican outlet Azeteca Puebla have claimed that the Gunners have already submitted a £19 million bid for the teenager.
Liverpool, meanwhile, have not yet lodged a formal bid but have been name‑checked consistently in reports from Mexico, the Netherlands and the UK as one of the Premier League sides closely tracking Mora.
Mora emerged from Tijuana’s academy and broke into the senior side in August 2024, aged just 15 years, ten months and five days, setting a club record as their youngest debutant and ranking as the third-youngest player ever to appear in Liga MX.
Since then, the 17-year-old has featured 53 times in all competitions for Tijuana, contributing 10 goals and two assists.
It is claimed Mora would prefer to postpone a move to Europe until after his 18th birthday in October 2027.
He is represented by Rafael Pimenta, who is also the agent of Arne Slot.