Image for The Colombian wonderkid likened to Kaka joining Liverpool: Everything you need to know
Liverpool are excited to see their latest young talent join them in 2027, but who is Samuel Martinez?
The Reds officially confirmed an agreement to sign the 17-year-old attacking midfielder from Atletico Nacional in July, with Martinez set to join Liverpool’s Academy ahead of the 2027/28 season.
His arrival is a coup, even if he may not contribute to the first team in a meaningful way for a couple of years.
In an official statement made on the club’s website, they reported : “Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Samuel Martinez from Atletico Nacional.
“The 17-year-old attacking midfielder will join the Reds’ Academy ranks ahead of the 2027-28 season, after a move to bring him to the club was completed.”
Think Liverpool have signed a Gem in Samuel Martínez (17, ??)
The way he moves is reminiscent of Milan Kaka. (His ability to protect the ball when in motion) ? pic.twitter.com/fIWVVxhSf1
— António Mango (@AntonioMango4) September 25, 2026
So, who exactly is Liverpool’s Colombian wonderkid?
Martinez emerged from Atletico Nacional’s academy as a technically gifted No.10, capable of operating centrally as well as on the wing. His best role, however, is in the No.10 role, which will be interesting to watch, given the No.10 role is almost extinct in the Premier League.
His reputation exploded during the 2026 South American U17 Championship in Aprul. According to ?Liverpool’s official announcement, Martinez featured in all six matches as Colombia won the tournament, providing three assists.
That included assists during a 3-0 semi-final victory over Brazil and Colombia’s emphatic 4-0 win over Argentina in the final.
Those performances inevitably attracted attention from Europe
Before Liverpool completed the deal, ?Colombian newspaper El Colombiano reported interest from several major clubs, including Bayern Munich and Chelsea.
Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund were also linked with the teenager before Liverpool secured his signature.
Colombian starlet Samuel Martínez (17) has signed a 5 year deal with Liverpool according to reports.
Take a look at this gem ? ? pic.twitter.com/KRY4gn9jBB
— LFC Transfer Room (@LFCTransferRoom) May 23, 2026
Perhaps the most eye-catching description of Martinez, however, has been the comparison with former AC Milan and Brazil superstar Kaká.
Nobody should expect Martinez to arrive at Liverpool as the “next Kaká”. The comparison instead stems simply from similarities in their playing styles.
?Reporting in Colombia highlighted Martinez’s slender frame, running style and deceptive acceleration over short distances as traits reminiscent of the 2007 Ballon d’Or winner.
The club did not disclose the transfer fee, although reports have placed the agreement at around £750,000, with Atletico Nacional retaining a percentage of a future sale. Martinez will not arrive immediately.
He remains with Atletico Nacional while continuing his development, with Liverpool confirming that he will join their Academy ahead of the 2027/28 campaign.
For Martinez, the transfer represents the culmination of a remarkable year.
Speaking to ?AS Colombia after the move was confirmed, he described signing for Liverpool as “a dream” but stressed his determination to continue improving.
Liverpool have moved early because they believe they can help one of Colombia’s brightest young creators become something of his own.