Liverpool Face United Competition for Dutch Prodigy | OneFootball

Liverpool and Manchester United Tracking Ajax Star Jorthy Mokio

Rising Star Catching Europe’s Attention

TEAMtalk have reported that “Liverpool and Manchester United are among a number of clubs keeping tabs on rising Ajax star Jorthy Mokio”, and the 17-year-old Belgian is now one of the most watched prospects in Europe. Mokio’s decision to join Ajax in 2024, turning down Barcelona and Bayern Munich, was a statement of intent. Ajax’s faith in his potential is clear, with a contract running until 2027 providing stability for his development.

Despite having made just 61 minutes of Eredivisie action this season, Mokio’s profile is growing rapidly. His ability to play as a centre-back, defensive midfielder, or even a left-back gives him the versatility modern coaches demand. Standing at 6ft, left-footed and technically composed, he looks well-suited for possession-based systems.

Premier League Clubs Watching Closely

TEAMtalk revealed that “Chelsea have heavily scouted and profiled Mokio, with the Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup winners viewing the teenager as a future midfield anchor.” Liverpool, Manchester United, Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham are also monitoring his progress.

Photo: IMAGO

The publication added that Mokio’s style is “built for the Premier League”, which will excite supporters of any club linked with him. His mix of progressive passing, duel-winning tenacity and ability to drive the ball forward has scouts describing him as a hybrid between Declan Rice and N’Golo Kanté.

Perfect Platform at Ajax

Ajax remains one of the great finishing schools of European football, and Mokio is in the right environment to polish his game. TEAMtalk noted that “his glimpses of quality… have intensified interest” from top clubs. Twenty-one appearances and two goals already underline that he is trusted at senior level.

This season will be crucial for his growth, and if he can establish himself as a regular starter, a major transfer battle could erupt as early as summer 2026. Barcelona and Real Madrid are watching closely, but the Premier League might prove an irresistible destination.

Liverpool’s Transfer Focus

Alongside Mokio, TEAMtalk also reported that Liverpool could revive interest in Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi after a summer move fell through on deadline day. They also highlighted an “intriguing revelation about Florian Wirtz”, suggesting the German playmaker’s arrival from Bayer Leverkusen could be transformative for Liverpool’s midfield.

Photo IMAGO

Our View – Anfield Index Analysis

For Liverpool fans, Jorthy Mokio represents the type of signing that fits Arne Slot’s long-term vision. At just 17, his versatility could be a huge asset, particularly as Liverpool look to transition smoothly between generations. His ability to play centre-back and defensive midfield is invaluable for a squad that needs depth in both areas, especially after the departure of senior players in recent seasons.

Scouts calling him a mix of Declan Rice and N’Golo Kanté will turn heads on Merseyside. Liverpool have lacked a true midfield enforcer since Fabinho’s peak years, and Mokio’s style could restore that balance. Supporters will hope the club move quickly if competition from Chelsea, Manchester United and even Real Madrid intensifies.

The January talk around Marc Guehi is also significant. Slot will want defensive reinforcements as Liverpool prepare for a demanding calendar including Champions League football. Add in Florian Wirtz’s growing influence and Liverpool look to be building an elite spine that can challenge domestically and in Europe for years to come.