Liverpool keen to sign £17m forward before his price sky-rockets, they’ve tracked him for ages.

Liverpool are set to make a push to sign Mainz youngster Nelson Weiper, after tracking him for two years.

That’s according to BILD, who claim that the Bundesliga side have had requests ‘pouring in’ for the 18-year-old. After becoming the youngest scorer in the club’s history last season, Weiper’s stock is on the rise.

Liverpool are said to be one of the club’s most intent on luring the forward away from Mainz. Having monitored Weiper’s development for over two years, the Reds are claimed to be ‘keen’ to now make their move.

However, they may have to pay a premium to get him out of his current club. Despite reportedly being valued at around £4.3m recently, Mainz will supposedly reject offers as high as £17m for Weiper.

Instead, they’re said to be expecting the youngster’s value to rocket past £43m over the next couple of years. Weiper himself is also claimed to be happy to stay and develop at Mainz.

Liverpool keeping tabs on Weiper

Weiper has had a very promising start to his career as a senior player. Having played just 93 minutes over nine appearances for Mainz, he’s already managed two goals.

That’s very promising indeed. But we don’t think it justifies paying even £17m, let alone £43m.

If the teenager can break into the first team and keep impressing next season, then that might start to become realistic. For the time being though, this seems like one to monitor rather than get excited about.

Nevertheless, it might be worth Liverpool fast-tracking their interest if they genuinely have any.

As BILD report, there appear to already be plenty of clubs coming out of the woodwork for Weiper. Just like with another young prodigy – Arda Guler – if Liverpool wait too long, the room will be too crowded.

Of course, Liverpool do have a bit of a trump card when it comes to young German players. With Jurgen Klopp a legendary figure at Mainz, Weiper will be all too aware of the Reds boss’ impact on his players’ development.

But, for the time being, that seems like being a way off from consideration. Certainly a young man to keep a close eye on, though.