Liverpool have pulled off a cheeky transfer heist, beating Arsenal to the punch for highly-rated Salford City forward Will Wright.

The 17-year-old wonderkid was all but set for a move to north London earlier this summer, with the Gunners reportedly agreeing a £200,000 deal plus add-ons with Salford. But in true transfer window fashion, personal terms tripped things up—and Liverpool swooped in to seal the deal.

Wright Move at the Wright Time

Liverpool acted fast, securing both club and player agreement while Arsenal were still crossing T’s and dotting I’s. Staying in the North West was a key factor for Wright, and the Merseyside giants played that hand perfectly.

He’ll now join Liverpool’s Under-21 squad, recently taken over by new boss Rob Page, and is expected to begin training soon after completing his move.

Arsenal Left Red-Faced, Not Red-Hot

Arsenal had made Wright a top target in their ongoing youth recruitment drive, led by academy chief Per Mertesacker. With a dedicated budget and big plans for elite youth talent, Wright was supposed to be the next big thing in red and white. But Liverpool’s late-game winner has left the Gunners empty-handed.

Why the Hype Around Will Wright?

Scored freely at youth level for Salford and stood out in their B team

Made his senior debut vs Manchester City in January 2024

Logged two League Two appearances before the season ended

Developed largely outside traditional academy structures, making his rise even more impressive


Both Arsenal and Liverpool believed he was ready to step into top-tier development systems, and it seems Liverpool’s pitch proved more convincing.

Another One for the Reds’ Youth Revolution

Wright joins an ever-growing list of exciting English talents opting for Liverpool’s academy route. The Premier League champions had previously monitored him before cooling interest—but Arsenal’s approach reignited their chase.

The Reds now get their man, while Arsenal are left wondering what might’ve been.

Deal Close to Completion

Wright is expected to finalise his move to Anfield this week and will link up with the Under-21s soon after. One thing’s for sure: this signing shows Liverpool mean business in the youth market—and they’re not afraid to pinch a prospect or two from their rivals.