Liverpool are set to sign Derby starlet Kaide Gordon, with Wayne Rooney admitting the talented teenager’s exit now seems inevitable.
Rooney gave Gordon his debut for the Rams on 29 December and the 16-year-old is seen as one of England's most exciting academy players.
Liverpool are understood to be in talks to sign Gordon on a professional contract once he turns 17 in October and Rooney admitted a deal was likely.
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“It looks that way," the Derby head coach said. “Kaide is fantastic player. I brought him into the first team squad because he was showing the qualities I want. We offered him a deal which he didn't take.
“As always when a player doesn't sign up, if any of the big clubs in the Premier League come in, it is very difficult to deny the player that opportunity.
“There has been an offer for Kaide since before I have been in this role. He hasn't signed it for whatever reasons. Liverpool have become aware of that and stepped in. Once a team like Liverpool come in for one of your players it is hard to turn that down.
“For his development of course I would have liked him to stay at the club. But I understand once the champions of England come in and want to sign you, it is difficult to turn it down.”
