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Liverpool are on the verge of finalising a deal to bring in promising Colombian teenager Samuel Martinez from Atletico Nacional. The Premier League powerhouse has acted swiftly to capture one of South America’s most exciting young prospects at a modest fee.

Liverpool set to wrap up £750,000 transfer

As reported by The Athletic, Liverpool are preparing to complete the signing of Colombia youth international Samuel Martinez for a fee of approximately £750,000. The 17-year-old attacking midfielder has already arrived in Merseyside to finalise the remaining formalities, although his official registration with the club will take effect next summer.

Martinez will continue with Atletico Nacional during the upcoming season, as Liverpool want him to further his development in a familiar environment. Over the next 12 months, the Anfield side will have a direct involvement in overseeing his training and progress. This careful plan ensures that the youngster gains essential experience before permanently transitioning to English football.

Successful scouting mission in Colombia

Martinez came to Liverpool’s attention following his outstanding displays for Colombia at the South American Under-17 Championship in April. He was one of the standout players of the tournament, helping Colombia defeat Argentina in the final to claim the title.

The deal was the result of a coordinated effort among Liverpool’s senior recruitment figures. Contributions came from the club’s long-serving head of South American scouting, Fernando Troiani, and academy recruitment head, Chris Dowling. Liverpool’s director of global talent, Matt Newberry, also played a crucial role in bringing the move to fruition.

Focused on long-term growth

While the Martinez signing is geared towards the future, Liverpool have been proactive in strengthening their youth setup with other international prospects. In January, they secured Senegalese youth international defender Mor Talla Ndiaye from Amitie FC for £1 million. The club also brought in centre-back Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austria Vienna in a deal valued at £2.5 million.

These signings reflect Liverpool’s clear intent to remain ahead in the increasingly fierce competition for elite academy talent. By identifying Martinez early, the club hopes to have found a player who can eventually earn a place in the senior squad.

Iraola calls for further summer additions

Liverpool’s active transfer strategy shows no signs of slowing down. Head coach Andoni Iraola has publicly acknowledged that the club’s recruitment team is "working hard" to bring in additional high-profile players. Speaking to the press before the team’s pre-season preparations, the Spanish manager highlighted that although the early arrivals of dynamic winger Víctor Munoz and talented defender Jeremy Jacquet have strengthened the squad, the club’s summer recruitment efforts are far from complete.

“We’ve signed two players already, but we need more – we know this,” Iraola told journalists candidly when discussing his squad’s structure. “As a coach, I naturally want the players here from the first day, but we understand the market doesn’t operate that way. We are working tirelessly to get those signings through.”