Liverpool appear to have taken a significant lead in the race to secure the services of Andrija Maksimovic, a 17-year-old playmaker from Red Star Belgrade who is being tipped as one of football’s next big stars. While Bundesliga giants Borussia Dortmund are known for their ability to identify young talents before they fully emerge, this time, they may be lagging behind in the pursuit of Maksimovic, who has garnered significant interest from the Reds.
Dortmund have an impressive track record of spotting football prodigies early in their careers—Jude Bellingham is a prime example of their sharp eye for future superstars. However, in the case of Maksimovic, Dortmund seem hesitant to make any concrete moves just yet. Christian Falk, a reliable source for football transfers, revealed to CaughtOffside that although the Serbian youngster is on Dortmund’s radar, they are not actively pursuing a deal at this moment. In contrast, Liverpool and other clubs are much closer to making a potential move for the rising star.
Liverpool’s Keen Interest in Maksimovic
Liverpool’s interest in Maksimovic aligns with their strategy of blending homegrown talent with key signings of young stars. While the club continues to nurture their own academy players—such as Trent Alexander-Arnold, Curtis Jones, and Jarell Quansah—the potential of Maksimovic is seen as too high to ignore.
Maksimovic has made waves in youth football, particularly during his impressive stint in the under-17 Kadetska Liga, where he scored 29 goals in 25 matches during the 2022/23 season. His form included two remarkable runs of scoring in six consecutive games, highlighting his goal-scoring prowess. In senior football, Maksimovic has already provided an assist and scored in a UEFA Youth League match, proving he is capable of making an impact beyond youth-level competitions.
The Serbian wonderkid is seen by many as one of the most promising talents in Europe, and Liverpool, keen to avoid missing out on the next Jude Bellingham-like star, appear ready to make a decisive move. Almost every top European club would have loved to sign Bellingham when he was still developing in the Championship, and Maksimovic could follow a similar trajectory, making him a highly sought-after talent.
Borussia Dortmund Playing Catch-Up
Dortmund are not only falling behind in the race for Maksimovic but are also facing the possibility of losing their own rising star, Jamie Bynoe-Gittens, to either Liverpool or Manchester City. Bynoe-Gittens, who has emerged as one of Dortmund’s latest bright young talents, is reportedly keen on a move to the Premier League, with Liverpool listed as one of his preferred destinations.
This puts Dortmund in a precarious position, as they risk missing out on Maksimovic while simultaneously dealing with the possibility of losing a key player to one of their biggest European rivals.
Other Liverpool Transfer Updates
While the focus is on securing Maksimovic, Liverpool are also managing internal matters concerning their current squad. Brazilian goalkeeper Alisson Becker is reportedly keen to extend his stay at Anfield, despite the recent competition from Giorgio Mamardashvili, who has joined the team to challenge for the number one spot.
Another key player, Trent Alexander-Arnold, whose contract is set to expire soon, has been the subject of interest from European heavyweights such as Real Madrid, Barcelona, and Bayern Munich. However, there is confidence within Liverpool that they will be able to retain his services. Similarly, there is optimism that Virgil van Dijk, whose contract also runs out soon, will remain at the club, further solidifying Liverpool’s defensive core.
A Bright Future for Maksimovic?
As Maksimovic continues to make waves in youth and senior football, the battle for his signature is only intensifying. With Liverpool in pole position and Borussia Dortmund stuttering, the young Serbian’s next move could see him on the path to stardom in the Premier League. His high ceiling, combined with his proven track record in youth football, makes him an exciting prospect for any top European club looking to build for the future.
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