Liverpool have officially secured the signing of Colombian wonderkid Samuel Martinez, adding one of South America’s most promising teenage talents to their long-term plans.
The 17-year-old attacking midfielder has agreed to join the Reds on a long-term deal, although fans will have to wait before seeing him in Liverpool colours. Due to FIFA rules restricting international transfers for players under 18, Martinez will stay with Atlético Nacional until next summer, when he becomes eligible to complete his switch to Anfield.
Liverpool are reportedly set to pay around £750,000 for the highly-rated youngster, who has already completed his medical and signed a five-year contract that will officially come into effect once he reaches the age of 18.
Martinez has emerged as one of Colombia’s brightest young prospects in recent years. Having developed through Atlético Nacional’s academy, he broke into the first team and played a key role in Colombia’s triumph at the South American U-17 Championship, attracting interest from several major European clubs.
The Reds’ recruitment department acted quickly to secure his services ahead of rival clubs, underlining Liverpool’s strategy of identifying and developing elite young talent. Although Martinez will not arrive at the club’s Kirkby training base until next summer, Liverpool are expected to keep a close eye on his progress during the upcoming campaign.
With another exciting prospect added to their future plans, Liverpool supporters will be eager to see whether Samuel Martinez can eventually make his mark at Anfield like many successful South American stars before him.
