Liverpool have successfully hijacked Arsenal’s attempts to sign Salford City’s teenage sensation Will Wright, with the striker now set to join the Reds. The 17-year-old forward, who has been prolific at youth level and recently broke into Salford’s first team, has opted for a move to Anfield over the Emirates.
Wright first garnered attention after making his senior debut for Salford City in the EFL Trophy against Wolves Under-21s last November. He continued to impress with appearances against Manchester City in the FA Cup and in League Two against Port Vale, amassing a total of four senior appearances thus far.
Arsenal seemed to be in pole position to secure Wright’s services, reportedly offering a larger fee and wages to the League Two club for the 2008-born talent. However, Liverpool have now outflanked the Gunners by negotiating a deal that includes a £200,000 upfront payment and various add-ons, convincing Wright to choose Merseyside over a move to London for footballing reasons and geographic convenience.
As Wright undergoes his medical, it’s expected he’ll join up with Rob Page’s Under-21 squad ahead of their Premier League 2 campaign once the deal is finalised. Arsenal, though missing out on Wright, remain optimistic about their youth prospects. The North London club boasts several promising young players poised for first-team action, including the 18-year-old duo Myles Lewis-Skelly and Ethan Nwaneri.
Additionally, Arsenal’s Max Dowman and Marli Salmon have been earmarked for future senior opportunities, particularly in the 2025/26 season. Dowman, aged only 15, has already turned heads after winning a penalty and delivering a standout performance against Newcastle United during pre-season. Praising Dowman’s impact, Mikel Arteta commented, “What he’s done today against this team at such a young age is extraordinary. The support from his family, our club, and academy is instrumental, setting him on a promising path for the future.”
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