Liverpool 'leading Barcelona and Real Madrid' in race for wonderkid

Although Brito has yet to make a senior appearance for the Primeira Liga side he has impressed during his displays for Benfica B, while he has also become a permanent fixture in the Portugal U-19 team.

It has been suggested that Benfica have tied him down to a new contract which includes a £38m minimum release fee clause, but according to Portuguese publication Record this is only activated when Brito makes his league debut.

Liverpool's interest is said to be strongest out of those monitoring the player, and it remains to be seen whether they make a bid for Brito during the current transfer window or wait to see how he develops.

The Reds have invested in youth a number of times recently, including the summer signings of 18-year-old defender Sepp van den Berg from PEC Zwolle and 16-year-old midfielder Harvey Elliott from Fulham.

They have also used academy players in cup games this season, with the likes of Curtis Jones and Neco Williams impressing during their 1-0 FA Cup third round win over rivals Everton earlier this month.

So far this month they have only made one signing – the addition of Takumi Minamino from RB Salzburg – but manager Jurgen Klopp said further deals would be unlikely.

"Every year we have the same situation. It is always tricky - we will probably not be too busy," said Klopp.

"We will see what happens, but it is not likely."

The Reds take on League One side Shrewsbury in the fourth round of the FA Cup on Sunday before they look to extend their lead at the top of the Premier League to a massive 19 points when they face West Ham on Wednesday.

Source: Daily Mirror

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