Liverpool announce exciting young new signing, only officially joining in 2027

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Liverpool have officially signed Samuel Martinez, signing the 17-year-old for £750,000 from Atletico Nacional with his arrival deferred to 2027. Much like the deal to sign 15-year-old Michael Mulholland from Crusaders, the signing cannot be legally made until he turns 18, but Martinez is, for all intents and purposes, a Liverpool player.

In an official statement made on the club’s website, they report: “Liverpool have agreed a deal to sign Samuel Martinez from Atletico Nacional. “Martinez starred for Colombia as they were winners of the U17 South American Championship in April.

“He featured in all six of his country’s games at the tournament and registered three assists, including one each in the 3-0 semi-final defeat of Brazil and 4-0 final victory over Argentina.” Why can Martinez only join Liverpool in 2027 when he turns 18? Article 19 of FIFA’s Regulations on the Status and Transfer of Players dictates: Any player under the age of 18 generally cannot make an international transfer to a club or country There are only a handful of exceptions and they must be approved by FIFA Martinez currently plays for Atletico Nacional in Colombia and so falls under a different football association.