Borussia Dortmund are reportedly in pole position to sign Genk teenager Konstantinos Karetsas ahead of the likes of Chelsea and Liverpool but the Reds have snapped up another young signing.
The German club has reportedly accelerated their talks with the Greek starlet, his agents and Genk and are now seen as the likely next destination for the 17-year-old.
TEAMtalk reporter Graeme Bailey reports: “The Bundesliga giants are reshaping their attack ahead of the new season and have identified the 17-year-old as one of their priority additions following the imminent departures of Karim Adeyemi and Julian Brandt.
“Discussions with the player’s camp are progressing well, while negotiations with Genk are also underway.
“However, the Belgian club have already rejected Dortmund’s opening offer of €26million, with Genk holding out for a fee in the region of €35million for one of Europe’s brightest young attacking talents.
“Liverpool, Brighton, Everton and City Football Group have all been kept informed of the latest developments, with each continuing to monitor the situation.”
Meanwhile, Liverpool are close to signing 17-year-old Colombian starlet Samuel Martinez from Atletico Nacional.
All the latest reports on Liverpool bid to sign Martinez
Sky Germany reporter Florian Pletttenberg reports that Martinez travelled to Merseyside to undergo a medical, which he passed, with a deal now done although an announcement is yet to be made.
Plettenberg reported: “The 17 y/o top talented midfielder will join Liverpool from Atlético Nacional in a deal worth $1 million, plus a sell-on clause.
“After completing his medical, Martínez will sign a five-year contract. He will officially joinLFC next year after turning 18 on 5 April.”
The London Evening Standard reports that the medical was a success and that the deal is done even though Liverpool have yet to make an official announcement to supporters and partners.
Liverpool beat the likes of Bayern Munich, Dortmund and Manchester City to his signature in what is the club’s latest move to bolster their long term talent ranks.
Under new head coach Andoni Iraola, Liverpool are expected to return to putting trust in young players which went out the window a little under Arne Slot.
Michael first started supporting Liverpool after Istanbul in 2006. He has since followed the Reds with passion and curiosity, founding Rousing the Kop, Anfield Central while briefly co-owning Anfield Watch. Michael lives in Cape Town, South Africa.