Liverpool snatch Will Wright from Arsenal after Gunners fail to finalise terms | OneFootball

Liverpool have beaten Arsenal to the signing of highly rated Salford City forward Will Wright.

The 17-year-old had been close to joining Arsenal earlier this summer, with a reported £200,000 fee plus add-ons agreed between the two clubs.

However, personal terms with the Gunners were never finalised, and Liverpool have now taken advantage to seal a deal.

The Merseyside club reached an agreement with Salford and swiftly wrapped up terms with the player.

Wright was reportedly keen to remain in the north west, a factor which worked in Liverpool’s favour during negotiations.

The young striker will initially link up with Liverpool’s Under-21 squad under new manager Rob Page.

Wright had emerged as one of Arsenal’s top academy targets in recent months.

Academy manager Per Mertesacker has been driving a renewed focus on recruiting elite young talent, with club backing and a dedicated budget to support that strategy.

Wright’s goal record at youth level and in Salford’s ‘B’ team marked him out as a standout prospect.

He made his senior debut against Manchester City in January and featured twice in League Two before the end of the 2023–24 campaign.

His development has largely taken place outside the formal academy system, but clubs believe he is now ready to make the step into a top-tier environment.

Arsenal had planned for Wright to split his time between their Under-18s and Under-21s, with potential involvement in the UEFA Youth League.

Liverpool’s intervention brings a sudden end to those plans and reflects the increased competition among elite sides for emerging domestic talent.

The Premier League champions had previously shown interest in Wright before focusing on other targets.

But after Arsenal made their move, Liverpool reignited their pursuit and ultimately landed the striker.

Wright joins a growing group of young English prospects choosing Liverpool’s pathway in what has become a fiercely competitive space for academy recruitment.

While Arsenal’s plans for youth development remain unchanged, missing out on Wright will be seen as a blow given the advanced stage of their talks.

Wright is expected to formally complete the move to Anfield this week and begin training with the Under-21s shortly after.