Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign Atletico Nacional’s Samuel Martinez, beating competition from several other European clubs, including Borussia Dortmund. The deal, as reported by Pipe Sierra and Fabrizio Romano, will see the 17-year-old join the Anfield club in 2027, once he turns 18.
The transfer comes as Liverpool continue to reshape their squad under Arne Slot, with the uncertainty surrounding Champions League qualification not deterring planning for the future. The club recently secured the signing of Stade Rennais defender Jeremy Jacquet for a fee of €63.6 million, and Martinez represents a further investment in young talent.
Martinez is a highly-rated attacking midfielder who has impressed with Colombia’s U17s, despite not yet making his senior debut for Atletico Nacional. He was a standout performer during Colombia’s successful U17 South American Championship campaign, attracting attention from scouts across Europe. Atletico Nacional will receive a $1 million compensation fee for the transfer, along with a sell-on percentage.
The Colombian youngster has been proactively preparing for a move to Europe, recently revealing to ESPN Colombia that he has been studying English “every three days a week” to aid his adaptation. Martinez describes his playing style as dynamic and forward-thinking, citing a desire to “change the pace forward, always go forward, take on defenders,” while also acknowledging the importance of defensive responsibilities. He has also stated his admiration for current Liverpool winger Luis Diaz.
Martinez is set to sign a five-year contract with Liverpool, indicating the club’s long-term belief in his potential. The acquisition of Martinez represents a strategic move by Liverpool to secure promising young talent, potentially bolstering their midfield options in the years to come.
