Fabrizio Romano drops ‘Here We Go’ as Liverpool seal long-term deal for promising centre-back

Fabrizio Romano drops ‘Here We Go’ as Liverpool seal long-term deal for promising centre-back

Liverpool have reportedly completed the signing of highly-rated teenage defender Dara Jikiemi, with Fabrizio Romano confirming the deal is done.

The Reds have placed a strong emphasis on strengthening their defensive ranks with young talent over the past year, bringing in Giovanni Leoni and Jeremy Jacquet for the senior squad, while academy prospects Mor Talla Ndiaye, Noah Adekoya, and Ifeanyi Ndukwe have also arrived.

Jikiemi is now set to join that growing list of exciting prospects. On Monday evening, Romano announced on X: “Liverpool have sealed the deal to sign Scotland U16 captain Dara Jikiemi from Celtic, here we go! Jikiemi signed the paperwork on Sunday and will join Liverpool on a five-year contract.”

Liverpool’s interest in the 16-year-old has been ongoing since late 2025, with the club’s persistence finally paying off. His arrival continues the club’s strategy of recruiting some of the brightest young centre-backs in Britain.

The move also mirrors Liverpool’s successful capture of Ben Doak from Celtic in 2022, who has since progressed to senior international football with Scotland.

Widely regarded as one of Scotland’s standout defensive prospects, Jikiemi has earned praise for both his ability and leadership, captaining his country at under-16 level. Liverpool’s reported decision to hand him a five-year contract highlights the club’s confidence in his long-term potential.

The Reds will now hope the talented youngster continues his development through the academy ranks before eventually pushing for a place in the first team, adding another exciting chapter to Liverpool’s impressive youth recruitment strategy.