Transfers: Liverpool sign ‘the next Kaká’: Who is Colombian midfielder Samuel Martínez?- The Week

By Sandy Verma On May 25, 2026

Premier League giants Liverpool FC have sealed a deal to sign Atlético Nacional’s 17-year-old Colombian attacking midfielder, Samuel Martínez, a report said. He will arrive at Anfield immediately after turning 18.

As per reports, Liverpool beat Borussia Dortmund to sign the youngster on a five-year deal. Real Madrid and Chelsea were also involved ever since he impressed in the CONMEBOL Under-17 Championship. The former Premier League champions will pay Atlético Nacional around £750,000 for the youngster, they added.

“Liverpool agree deal to sign Samuel Martínez from Atlético Nacional, here we go! Deal in place for 17-year-old Colombian talent to join in 2027, as soon as he turns 18,” noted transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano said on X.

The teenager, who idolises Lionel Messi and Liverpool star Luis Díaz, was wanted by several European giants, and his camp wanted to ensure that he would go to a club with a proper development system.

The Kaka comparison

For those who are unaware of Martínez’s exploits, he is often compared to Brazil legend Kaká. In the teenager’s own words, he is someone who likes to keep moving forward—changing the pace and taking on opponents whilst doing so.

Martínez is capable of keeping possession and dribbling past the opposition effortlessly. When needed, he has shown a willingness to contribute defensively as well. “His standout performances for Colombia during the CONMEBOL Under-17 Championship in April were converted into short viral clips and reshared on X. His lanky frame, upright style of running, and deceptive speed in short bursts conjured images of Brazilian legend Kaká,” The Athletic said in a report.

Commenting on his CONMEBOL U-17 Championship performances, the report elaborated: “Martínez stood tall, quite literally, among his peers. He showed high endurance and strong technical abilities. It’s a subtle trait, but the weight he puts on the ball when making short, medium, and long-distance passes was polished. He takes calculated risks inside the opponent’s half and tends to look forward rather than laterally when he gains possession.”