The teenager’s nomination for the prestigious annual accolade - which honours Europe’s best young footballer - comes during a year in which he has established himself as a regular in Liverpool’s first team represented England at the World Cup.
Contenders for the prize, which was established in 2003 by Italian newspaper Tuttosport, must be under the age of 21. The winner is decided by 30 journalists from media outlets across the continent.
That panel will cut 20 players from the shortlist next month, before the 2018 Golden Boy is chosen from a final group of 20 in December.