Report: Liverpool and Chelsea in race for Red Star’s top talent | OneFootball

Liverpool and Chelsea Face Major Hurdles in Pursuit of ‘Serbian Messi’

Liverpool and Chelsea have been put on notice regarding the potential cost of securing Andrija Maksimovic, the 17-year-old Serbian starlet whose dazzling performances for Red Star Belgrade have attracted the interest of Europe’s elite clubs. TEAMtalk reports that while scouts from the Premier League giants have been regular visitors to Red Star’s matches, they will face stiff competition and a hefty price tag to land this emerging talent.

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Maksimovic’s Standout Season

The young playmaker has been a revelation this term, showcasing his versatility across attacking and midfield roles. With 12 goal contributions in just 16 appearances across all competitions, Maksimovic has proven his quality against formidable opponents. His ambition is clear, famously declaring before a Champions League tie against Barcelona that he would outshine Lamine Yamal. Despite Red Star’s 5-2 loss, the teenager’s confidence remains unshaken.

Photo: IMAGO

Strong Support System Shapes Maksimovic’s Future

One of Maksimovic’s defining features is his grounded approach, aided by a close-knit family and advisors ensuring he makes calculated career moves. According to TEAMtalk, his camp envisions him donning the white of Real Madrid one day, a testament to their belief in his world-class potential.

However, Maksimovic is not short of suitors. Manchester City, Juventus, and Bundesliga powerhouses have all reportedly been monitoring his progress, meaning any transfer battle will likely extend far beyond Liverpool and Chelsea.

High Stakes for Top Clubs

For Liverpool, under the stewardship of Arne Slot, signing Maksimovic could further revitalise their creative options. Chelsea, meanwhile, are keen to bolster their young talent pool but will need to match Red Star’s ambitions. Maksimovic’s situation underscores the challenges clubs face in landing generational talents amid fierce competition.

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Liverpool supporters see him as the perfect fit for Arne Slot’s dynamic system. His ability to operate across multiple attacking roles aligns with Slot’s philosophy of fluid, high-intensity football. Fans on social media are already imagining him linking up with players like Mo Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai to add another layer of unpredictability.

Chelsea fans, on the other hand, view Maksimovic as a future cornerstone of their ongoing rebuild. With the club’s focus on securing young, high-potential talent, the Serbian wonderkid ticks all the right boxes. His confidence, showcased by his pre-Barcelona comments, has been a talking point in Stamford Bridge circles, symbolising the swagger fans have missed in recent years.

However, both sets of supporters acknowledge the significant financial outlay and competition involved. Can Liverpool and Chelsea step up and match their ambitions with the required bid? Fans are holding their breath for January, where the transfer window could bring this thrilling saga closer to resolution.