James Balagizi has signed a first pro contract with Liverpool.

Balagizi, who has played for the same England youth teams as Jude Bellingham, the teenager who recently signed for Borussia Dortmund and became England U21s' youngest player and goalscorer during the most recent international break, is among the Reds' most highly-rated youngsters.

The highly-rated prospect himself has explained why he had departed Manchester City for Merseyside at the age of 11.

He said: "I thought that the pathway at City was completely blocked compared to other places because they have so much talent in one group, and it is not concentrated on individuals.

"My parents didn't think that being at City was the best for me at the time. I'm a Manchester lad and I didn't like the idea of moving, but when I looked at it in perspective, it was [good for my career]."

Liverpool beat off competition from both Everton and Manchester United to get the deal over the line.

Balagizi added: "The club is so together and everyone is part of one big project. It's a good community and it's a good working environment. It's a place where people can thrive."