EXCLUSIVE: Liverpool's transfer plans REVEALED for Lionel Messi-like WONDERKID

Liverpool are set to make a significant move to secure the next 'Messi' in the upcoming transfer window.

Serbian international Andrija Maksimovic has been impressing numerous different European clubs at Red Star Belgrade this season, including Liverpool.

The 17-year-old is emerging as one of the hottest new prospects, who has already featured for the Serbian men's team.

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Liverpool set to make their move in January

As reported last week, Liverpool were considered to be one of the clubs that were closest to a deal for Maksimovic.

However, Anfield Watch now understands that Liverpool's intention is to make a permanent move for the player in January, before loaning him back to Red Star Belgrade for the remainder of the season.

At the end of the current campaign, the club will then assess the Serbian winger and possibly loan him out again for the 2025/26 campaign, before fully integrating the player into the academy set-up.

Liverpool are well-renowned for their work with young players, giving them opportunities within the first team when the manager feels confident in their ability to succeed, given the club's ambitions to consistently compete for the biggest trophies, Maksimovic would feel well at home in his first professional transfer.

The reported fee for a potential agreement between the two clubs is rumoured to be around £12million - not an insignificant amount for a teenager in the modern transfer market.

However, if the club feels that the player is destined for success, then striking while the iron is hot would be a sensible move.

Borussia Dortmund were earmarked to be the other club with interest in Maksimovic, but they are yet to make any concrete moves for the player and currently Liverpool are leading the race for his services.

Securing the 'next Messi'

Brandished the nickname for an old haircut he had when he was a small player, Maksimovic is a player earmarked for the very top of European football.

Having made his international debut earlier this year, at such a young age, the Serbian is undoubtedly on track to be a very influential player for his country.

And making 13 appearances for Red Star already this season in the Serbian Super League and the Champions League, he already has four goals and four assists.

Should Liverpool be able to secure his services, even though he is set to go on loan almost immediately, the player will be in the perfect environment for his success long-term, training alongside some of the best young talents in the world.

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