Liverpool watching HOTTEST prospect in Real Madrid academy | OneFootball

Liverpool intended to watch Martinez up close

And when Real Madrid’s UEFA Youth League squad visited Liverpool for their match earlier this month, it was expected that Liverpool recruitment staff AND directors would take the opportunity to witness Martinez in the flesh.

But those plans went awry when he was dropped from the travelling party having played for Real Madrid Castilla the previous weekend.

Liverpool were left disappointed not to catch a glimpse of a potential target but it’s certain that Reds’ analysts and scouts will have had their work done.

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Joan Martinez has got €150m buyout clause

Martinez has recovered from a serious ACL injury suffered last year and put pen to paper on his first professional deal when he turned 18.

It’s been reported that Madrid are protected by a €150m buyout in his current contract - and it remains to be seen whether any other club can tempt him away from the Spanish capital.

Liverpool’s centre-back department is due a shakeup in the next couple of seasons. ahead of his summer 2026 contract expiry.

And don’t forget Virgil van Dijk and Joe Gomez either - with Liverpool’s vastly experienced central defenders due to leave when their contracts expire in 2027.