Liverpool
Liverpool are edging closer towards signing Atlético Nacional’s Samuel Martínez this summer.
The Premier League side’s interest in the attacking midfielder isn’t new and they’ve been keen for months.
On May 23rd, Sport Witness covered claims from Colombia of Liverpool’s advances to sign him. The Reds are paying around €890,000 [£740k] to Atlético Nacional and are giving him a five-year contract.
Since those initial advances, the Anfield club have parted ways with Arne Slot and appointed Andoni Iraola as his successor. The managerial changes won’t impact the deal for the 17-year-old.
Liverpool move a blow for Bayern Munich
TZ from Germany provides a background on Bayern Munich’s interest in the Colombia U17 international.
He has been on the Bavarian club’s radar for months and is one of their desired targets this summer.
German agent Daniel Neumüller, who is from Bavaria, manages the Atlético Nacional young star.
Bayern Munich’s scouts have likened Samuel Martínez to Brazil legend Kaka because of his physique, the position he mainly operates in and his qualities.
Youngster set for Liverpool transfer
TZ claims Vincent Kompany’s side have been pursuing a deal for the teenager for several months. However, they are in for a disappointment because of Liverpool.
Samuel Martínez has ‘decided against a move’ to Bayern Munich and is now on his way to join the Reds. He will soon undergo medical tests with the English club.
The South American turning down Bayern Munich is a ‘setback’ for them despite the agent connection. His long-term future point towards Liverpool, but not immediately.
Martínez won’t be able to move to the UK until he turns 18 years of age in April 2027 because of Brexit. In short, Liverpool will complete his signing soon, but he can only join them after next season.
Colombia won the U17 South American championship in April. The Reds target starred by contributing three assists, including one in the 4-0 final win over Argentina.
Key transfer points
Liverpool and Bayern Munich following him for months
Colombian rejects Kompany’s side for Merseyside club
Martínez on his way to England for Reds medical
Can’t play in the UK until summer 2027