Liverpool are at the front of the queue among Premier League clubs pursuing Tijuana midfielder Gilberto Mora, with the Reds reportedly making direct contact with the teenager's representatives to explore the terms of a potential deal.

The 17-year-old announced himself to the world at FIFA World Cup 2026, where Mexico co-hosted the tournament. Mora started three matches — including the last-32 victory over Ecuador and the round-of-16 loss to England — and became the sixth-youngest player in World Cup history when he came off the bench against South Africa aged 17 years and 240 days.

Wide interest from European heavyweights

According to TEAMtalk, Liverpool are 'very keen' on Mora and have already reached out to his camp to gauge whether he would be open to linking up with manager Andoni Iraola's squad. The club's approach remains exploratory at this stage, though the Reds are eager to steal a march on their rivals.

Arsenal have also shown recent interest in the Liga MX starlet, while Manchester City and Chelsea are monitoring the situation closely. Further afield, Real Madrid are described as 'long-term admirers' and Mora reportedly sees a move to Los Blancos as a 'dream come true.' Barcelona have also dispatched scouts to observe him.

Manchester United, despite tracking Mora for six months, are said to be stepping back from the chase — unwilling to enter a costly bidding war.

Transfer timeline and valuation

Mora currently has three years remaining on his contract with Tijuana and carries a valuation of at least €40 million (approximately £34 million) — a figure that is only expected to climb as clubs intensify their pursuit following his World Cup displays.

However, FIFA regulations present an immediate obstacle: Mora cannot be registered with a foreign club until he turns 18 on October 14 this year, meaning no transfer can be officially completed before that date.

In the meantime, the Liga MX season kicks off later this month, giving Mora ample opportunity to further his reputation with Tijuana — and, in all likelihood, push his market value even higher before any European move comes to fruition.