Reds Track 16-Year-Old Rising Star as Part of Future Defensive Plans | OneFootball

Liverpool Target Ivorian Prospect Medéric in Youth-Driven Recruitment Push

As Liverpool prepare for a pivotal summer under the guidance of new manager Arne Slot, the club’s recruitment team is casting its net wide — and deep into youth football. With plans to strengthen both the senior squad and academy ranks, their attention has turned to one of the most promising defensive prospects in Africa.

Obli Kouamé Jean Medéric, a 16-year-old centre-back representing Ivory Coast at the 2025 CAF U17 Africa Cup of Nations, has emerged as a standout performer. Despite Ivory Coast’s group stage exit, Medéric’s maturity, positioning and calmness under pressure stood out.

According to Africa Foot,  “Liverpool’s scouts have monitored Medéric closely, deeming his physique and adaptability ideal for the Premier League’s demands.”

Rising Star with Big Club Attention

Medéric’s performance during a 4-2 defeat to Mali — where he completed 52 passes with composure that defied his age — has sparked continental interest. Standing at 1.84 metres, the left-footed defender combines physical presence with technical assurance, a blend coveted by elite clubs.

He has trained with FC Mouna, an Ivorian academy with a reputation for refining raw talent. His international exposure and frame suggest he’s well on track for a career at the highest level — and he is still only 16, born on 20 December 2008.

Liverpool aren’t the only club watching. Barcelona, reportedly undergoing a shift in youth scouting strategy, are believed to view Medéric as a key target in their renewed interest in African talent. Atalanta and Atletico Madrid are also monitoring developments.

Legal Framework and Strategic Timing

FIFA regulations permit Medéric’s transfer abroad at 16, provided educational and welfare conditions are met — meaning Liverpool can act this summer if they move swiftly and responsibly. The timing could be critical, particularly with the U17 World Cup in Qatar on the horizon. Should Medéric perform there as he has in Morocco, his value may rise exponentially.

His current lack of a professional contract could be a blessing for suitors willing to navigate FIFA’s Article 19 provisions. For Liverpool, whose defensive depth may need bolstering in the coming seasons, this would represent a long-term play rather than an immediate solution.

Photo: IMAGO

Defensive Recruitment Reflects Wider Strategy

While eyes are drawn to marquee names like Alexander Isak for the senior team, Liverpool’s scouting of Medéric reflects a more nuanced, long-term vision. Under Slot, there’s an emphasis not only on tactical fluidity but on sustainable squad building.

Medéric would slot into an emerging generation of talent being cultivated at Kirkby, where Liverpool have made clear they intend to compete with Europe’s best in youth development. His left-footed profile, in particular, offers future flexibility in a defensive unit increasingly required to build from the back.

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This is precisely the kind of recruitment that makes sense in the post-Klopp era. With Arne Slot’s emphasis on pressing structure and positional fluidity, having a composed left-footed centre-back in the system makes long-term sense — even if Medéric won’t be ready for the first team for several seasons.

What’s impressive is the strategic foresight. Liverpool could’ve waited until Medéric is 18 or 19 — but by then, he might be at Barcelona or Atletico. Moving now, while the costs are manageable and the talent is raw but evident, shows a club thinking ahead.

Of course, fans will always crave the big names. But Medéric is a signal that Liverpool remain committed to developing rather than just buying solutions. Think back to when we signed the likes of Joe Gomez or brought through Trent — this could be a similar trajectory.

It also reflects well on the club’s global scouting network. Africa has long been under-tapped by elite academies, and spotting someone like Medéric at this stage is both astute and ambitious. It’s not a flashy move, but it could be a brilliant one.