Liverpool make first move for Gilberto Mora, report says
Liverpool have made direct contact with the representatives of Gilberto Mora, the Club Tijuana teenager who impressed for Mexico at the 2026 World Cup, according to TeamTalk. The move puts the Reds into a crowded race for a 17-year-old who cannot complete an international transfer until he turns 18 in October.
Key Takeaways
- Liverpool have contacted Gilberto Mora's camp after his World Cup breakthrough.
- The Mexico teenager is contracted to Club Tijuana until 2029 and valued around €25 million.
- FIFA rules block an international move before his 18th birthday on October 14, 2026.
- Real Madrid, Barcelona, Dortmund and several Premier League clubs are also linked.
What have Liverpool done in the Gilberto Mora chase?
According to Yahoo Sports citing TeamTalk, Liverpool are understood to have made direct contact with Mora's representatives. Liverpool.com reports the same outreach, framing it as a first step to learn the terms of a potential deal.
Mora, 17 and Chiapas-born, earned praise at the tournament for composure, technical ability and vision. GiveMeSport notes he has been called "fearless" and compared to Barcelona's Pedri, while reports variously describe him as a forward, attacker or central midfielder.
Who else wants Gilberto Mora?
The race is already crowded. Borussia Dortmund, Barcelona and Benfica are said to lead active interest after initiating formal approaches to agent Rafaela Pimenta. Arsenal are heavily involved, while Manchester United, Manchester City and Chelsea are monitoring.
Real Madrid, Paris Saint-Germain, Bayern Munich, AC Milan, Napoli and Ajax are also credited with interest. GiveMeSport says Manchester United have shown aggressive early interest, though Mora is understood to prefer Real Madrid as a dream scenario.
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Why can't Gilberto Mora leave Mexico yet?
FIFA regulations prevent any international transfer before Mora turns 18 on October 14, 2026. Club Tijuana hold a contract until 2029, a valuation of around €25 million (about £25 million), and a structured release clause designed to protect their interests.
Mora has reportedly heard nothing concrete and remains focused on performing for Tijuana. His camp is said to prioritize a competitive environment that favors development over pure prestige, while European clubs currently hold an edge over Premier League sides.