Liverpool done deal as Colombian wonderkid Samuel Martinez passes medical | OneFootball

Andoni Iraola will have to wait a while to get a proper look at the teenager

Liverpool are closing in on the signing of highly rated Colombian wonderkid Samuel Martinez from Atletico Nacional in a deal worth around £750,000.

The Athletic report that the 17-year-old attacking midfielder has travelled to Merseyside to undergo a medical and finalise the transfer, although he will not officially become a Liverpool player until next summer. He turns 18 in April 2027.

As part of the agreement, Martinez will remain with Atletico Nacional for the upcoming season, allowing him to continue his development in familiar surroundings. Liverpool are expected to play an active role in monitoring his progress over the next 12 months, with the club viewing him as a long-term investment for the future.

Martinez emerged as one of South America's brightest young talents after impressing for Colombia at the South American Under-17 Championship in April, most notably during the victory over Argentina in the final. The teenager is also expected to represent his country at the FIFA Under-17 World Cup in Qatar later this year.

Liverpool faced strong competition from several European clubs before winning the race for Martinez's signature. The deal is understood to have been driven by the club's recruitment network, including long-serving head of South American scouting Fernando Troiani, academy recruitment chief Chris Dowling, and director of global talent Matt Newberry, who oversees the identification and recruitment of overseas prospects before they become eligible to move to England at the age of 18.

The Reds have continued to strengthen their youth ranks in recent transfer windows. Earlier this year, they secured the signings of Senegal Under-20 defender Mor Talla Ndiaye from Amitie FC for around £1million and Austria centre-back Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austria Vienna in a £2.5m deal. Both youngsters are expected to be included in new manager Andoni Iraola's squad for Liverpool's upcoming pre-season tour of the United States.