Liverpool set to sign Barcelona winger Adekanye

Bobby Adekanye is set to complete a move to Premier Giants Liverpool on a free transfer, according to the Liverpool Echo. Adekanye, 16, was born in Nigeria, but played in Holland before his switch to La Masia. It is understood that PSV and Ajax are also interested in him, but Liverpool lead the race for his signature.

Adekanye joined Barcelona in 2011 from Eredivisie side Ajax, but his transfer was deemed illegal by FIFA. This led to Barcelona being handed a transfer ban by the world’s governing body over the illegal recruitment of their youngsters. This meant that he joined PSV on-loan in order to get first team football, because he could not play for Barcelona.

The transfer ban itself will be lifted next year, but Adekanye doesn’t want to wait until then to play regular football with La Masia. It is understood that the winger has agreed terms with Liverpool, and is set to play to Melwood for a medical. According to Spanish publication Sport, Barcelona will not be given compensation for the youngster.
Adekanye currently plays for Holland’s Under-16 side, and looks set to play for Holland in the future, rather than his birthplace Nigeria. It is understood that Nigeria didn’t invite him to play for his country, but his father has completely ruled out not playing for the African nation.

Adekanye is currently a free agent, and will join wingers Sheyi Ojo, Ryan Kent and Harry Wilson at the club. The move will also see him link up with former Barcelona starlet Sergi Canos, who joined the Reds two years ago.