Liverpool prepare offer for Gilberto Mora

Liverpool director Julian Ward is negotiating with Club Tijuana and Rafaela Pimenta's team for the 18-year-old Mexican attacking midfielder, with a deal valued at $40m.

Liverpool have moved for Gilberto Mora, the 18-year-old Mexican attacking midfielder from Club Tijuana, in a deal set to be worth $40 million including add-ons and commissions. Director Julian Ward is leading negotiations with the player's representatives, managed by Rafaela Pimenta, as the club looks to beat Paris Saint-Germain to his signature. Mora only turned 18 on 14 October, clearing the bureaucratic hurdle for an immediate European transfer.

The teenager has made an immediate impact in Liga MX, becoming the youngest goalscorer in Mexican league history after netting against León just days after his debut on 18 August at 15 years and 308 days old. Standing 1.68m, he has scored five goals and provided one assist in his first eight league matches this season. Operating as a trequartista or winger, Mora is versatile enough to play as a false nine and is praised by former Tijuana manager Sebastián Abreu for his maturity and game intelligence.

Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola has scheduled a meeting for the end of next week to push the move forward. Tijuana president Jorgealberto Hank Inzunza is not expected to offer any discount on the asking price, with January likely to be the window for Mora's departure to Anfield.