Liverpool near signing of 17-year-old Atletico Nacional midfielder
Liverpool have agreed a £750,000 deal for Colombia youth international Samuel Martinez, who will remain at Atletico Nacional until next summer.
Photo: Wikimedia Commons / CC BY-SA 2.0 / Author: Jeff Buck
Liverpool are on the verge of finalising a deal for Atletico Nacional teenager Samuel Martinez. The 17-year-old attacking midfielder will join the club for a fee reported to be in the region of £750,000. While he has travelled to Merseyside to complete formalities, he will not link up with the squad permanently until next summer.
The club plans for Martinez to remain in Colombia for the coming season to aid his development. During this period, Liverpool will maintain direct input into his training and growth, ensuring he gains consistent playing time before transitioning to English football. This measured approach is a key part of their youth acquisition strategy.
Martinez caught the eye of scouts during the South American Under-17 Championship in April. He played a pivotal role in Colombia's title-winning campaign, which included a victory over Argentina in the final. The deal was secured through the collaborative work of the club's scouting network and director of global talent Matt Newberry.
This move is part of a broader push to secure elite young prospects, following recent acquisitions like Mor Talla Ndiaye and Ifeanyi Ndukwe. Meanwhile, head coach Andoni Iraola has confirmed that the club's recruitment efforts remain active, with further signings expected to bolster the squad ahead of the new season.