Xavier Parker rejects Liverpool transfer to sign new long-term Manchester City contract

Below is a summary of the full article. Click here for the full version from Rush The Kop or go back to LFC Live.

The Reds have officially missed out on one of Europe's most talented teenage talents, with 16-year-old wonderkid Xavier Parker deciding to commit his long-term future to Manchester City.For weeks, a move to Merseyside looked like a genuine possibility. Parker’s contract at the Etihad was rapidly ticking down, and Liverpool’s hierarchy had marked the midfielder as the ultimate emerging talent to bolster the academy ranks.Given the teenager is widely claimed to be a childhood fan of the Reds, Anfield looked like his most likely destination.

Reports in July suggested Liverpool were leading the race, ready to capitalise on the uncertainty surrounding his future.However, in a frustrating twist for the Reds, City have managed to steal a march and lock down their prized asset. Following formal talks on Tuesday, Parker will now sign scholarship terms in Manchester before automatically converting to a full professional contract on his 17th birthday.The Enzo Maresca interventionIt seems a personal touch was enough to keep Parker away from Anfield.

Despite Liverpool and Manchester United both pushing hard for his signature, it was a bespoke presentation that ultimately changed the youngster's mind.Reports detail exactly how the champions managed to turn the tide, noting: "Parker impressed Enzo Maresca in recent weeks and was taken aback by the Italian’s knowledge of his profile and the individual presentation given to keep him at #ManCity."🚨 EXCL: Xavier Parker commits future to Manchester City by agreeing long-term deal. Instead of moving to Liverpool, the midfielder is now expected to be fast-tracked, featuring for City's U21s this season with a senior debut already firmly in their plans.Missing out on the teenager is a bitter pill to swallow when you look at his staggering potential.