Liverpool raid Man City for 16-year-old centre-back - just months after poaching Chelsea academy wonderkid

Clarke, a left-sided defender, will be integrated into Liverpool’s Under 16 squad as part of the club’s ongoing efforts to strengthen their youth development program. He will train under coach Lewis Nightingale.

Clarke's signing follows Liverpool’s notable recruitment of young talent in recent years. Just three months ago, the Reds made headlines by securing Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea’s academy. The transfer required navigating complex administrative hurdles, leaving Chelsea frustrated to the point of denying Liverpool scouts access to their youth matches.

Clarke announced his move in an Instagram post, expressing his excitement by saying: “Delighted to have signed for @liverpoolfc, can’t wait to get started #ynwa.”

Clarke and Ngumoha are now part of a growing list of promising young players joining the Merseyside club. Liverpool have previously brought in Trey Nyoni from Leicester City, Amara Nallo from West Ham United, and Kornel Misciur from Hull City.

Their youth recruitment strategy has already borne fruit with several young stars making an impact. Ben Doak, who was signed from Celtic in 2022, Stefan Bajcetic from Celta Vigo, and Bobby Clark, who joined from Newcastle United in the same year, have all demonstrated the value of investing in young players. Notably, Bobby Clark’s development at Liverpool led to his high-profile sale to Red Bull Salzburg for £10 million this summer.

The recruitment drive comes during a stellar season for Liverpool under the leadership of Arne Slot. The Reds are currently leading the Premier League standings and topping their group in the Champions League, showcasing their strength both in England and in Europe. Their next challenge will be a Premier League clash against Fulham at Craven Cottage on Saturday, where they will aim to extend their commanding form.