The People says the England youth international from the Wirral had been with the Anfield club since he was 12, but he and his family were upset when he was offered only a short-term deal to stay.

Wootton turned down the contract and was immediately picked up by United who offered him the chance to be a professional - after just one run-out in the under-18 side last week.

It is a major slap for Rafa Benitez's club and insiders reveal Wootton left because he thought there were too many foreigners at the club's academy and his way would be blocked.

And the size of his potential was quickly spotted by eager United.