Liverpool in talks to sign 17-year-old Mexican wonderkid Gilberto Mora from Tijuana

Liverpool are in talks to sign Gilberto Mora, the 17-year-old Mexican playmaker who became the youngest player at this summer’s World Cup, according to Wednesday’s print edition of Mexican newspaper 24 Horas, relayed by Sport Witness. No formal offer has yet been made, but the report suggests Liverpool have a clearer picture than their rivals of how a deal could be structured.

Mora, who plays for Tijuana, was just 17 years and 240 days old when he featured at the tournament — described by youth football observers as “diminutive and flighty, always ready to take a shot on and never afraid to get stuck in.” His performances attracted attention from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, with Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Barcelona and Borussia Dortmund all credited with interest. FourFourTwo understands that Arsenal and Manchester City have also monitored the teenager.

The most likely timeline for any move is January, when Mora turns 18 and becomes eligible to sign for a European club. The 24 Horas report indicates Liverpool’s plan would involve a careful integration period rather than an immediate push for first-team minutes — a consideration echoed by Andres Lillini, who oversees Mexico’s youth national teams. Lillini has been quoted as saying: “After playing a World Cup, with everything he went through physically and emotionally, we have to look after the person and not wear him down just because we want to win something.”

The potential signing would fit the new direction at Anfield under manager Andoni Iraola, who replaced Arne Slot this summer. While last season’s recruitment focused on established names at significant cost — the club spent well over £400 million — this window has seen a shift towards younger, lower-profile additions. Defender Jeremy Jacquet and attacker Victor Munoz have already arrived, and Bradley Barcola remains linked as a higher-profile target.

Mora operates primarily on the left flank, an area where Liverpool already carry considerable depth. Teenager Rio Ngumoha is considered the long-term option in that position, which may further support the case for a patient, developmental approach with Mora should a deal eventually be agreed.

Sport Witness is clear that no agreement or formal offer is in place, and with the January window still weeks away, the situation remains fluid. What appears certain is that Liverpool are not alone in their pursuit, and competition from clubs of Real Madrid and Barcelona’s stature will test whether Iraola’s project can attract one of the most coveted young players in world football.