Who is Andrija Maksimovic? The ‘Messi’ Liverpool have a plan to sign

Yesterday Anfield Watch exclusively revealed Liverpool's plans to sign a Lionel Messi-likened wonder-kid.

The Reds are said to be the closest club to agree a deal for Andrija Maksimovic in January and will loan him back to his current club 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.

But why is the player so sought after by the Reds?

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Who is Andrija Maksimovic?

Maksimovic is a 17-year-old Serbian player who predominantly plays as a left-footed attacking midfielder but can also play as a right-winger if needed. He is known for his technical skills, vision, and maturity on the ball as well as his versatility in the centre of the pitch with the ability to switch between attacking and defensive play.

He recently became the second-youngest-ever Serbian debutant, appearing for his national team at the weekend at the age of just 17 years and four months. He also has some Champions League experience to his name with Red Star Belgrade.

The youngster also has eight goal contributions in 13 appearances across both senior and youth levels for Red Star this season.

His Messi nickname doesn't come from his talent, it actually comes from his sister, who thought his haircut resembled Lionel Messi's when he was little, and the name stuck ever since.

Why do Liverpool want him?

Red Star have reportedly given Maksimovic a price tag of £12m. While that seems pricey for a 17-year-old, it showcases just how exciting a talent he is. The investment highlights his potential, and with him already making a name for himself, it suggests he could soon be making waves at Anfield.

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.

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 Makismovic, but they are yet to make any concrete moves for the player

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