Uncertainty Surrounds Future of Liverpool Talent Josh Abe Amid Interest from Rivals
The future of highly rated Liverpool academy star Josh Abe is under increasing scrutiny, with Premier League rivals Chelsea and Manchester City both keen to lure the young midfielder away from Anfield. Speaking on Media Matters for Anfield Index, journalist Lewis Steele confirmed growing interest in the 16-year-old and highlighted the key role his agent, Tyler Alexander-Arnold, is expected to play in any decision.
🚨Exclusive: Liverpool are facing a battle to keep academy star Josh Abe, with Man City and Chelsea both interested.
His agent, Tyler Alexander-Arnold, will play a big part in his future.
[via @LewisSteele_] pic.twitter.com/brvwy3OyeH
— AnfieldIndex (@AnfieldIndex) February 2, 2026
Chelsea and City Circle as Liverpool Fight to Keep Abe
Abe, one of the standout prospects in Liverpool’s youth ranks, has already attracted attention from several top clubs across England and Europe. Steele told host Dave Davis that Arsenal, Chelsea, Manchester City and even Real Madrid are all monitoring the situation closely.
“If you’ve ever watched him play, you can probably see why,” Steele said. “I think he could well be the most exciting kid in the academy right now.”
Steele confirmed that the player has recently signed with PLG, the agency run by Tyler Alexander-Arnold, the brother of former Liverpool player Trent Alexander-Arnold. While some fans perceive Tyler as being “anti-Liverpool”, Steele rejected that characterisation. “He’s a Liverpool fan,” he said, noting Tyler also represents Luke Chambers and had long-term clients like Nat Phillips and Andy Robertson.
Arsenal Allegiances and Liverpool’s Counter-Move
Abe’s next move remains undecided, but there are signals suggesting that the club is working hard to retain him. “He trained with the first team last week,” Steele revealed. He also noted that Abe appears to be an Arsenal supporter, based on his social media activity, which could influence his thinking should the Gunners make a serious push for his signature.
Liverpool, meanwhile, are reportedly considering offering Abe opportunities in the senior setup to encourage him to stay. “It’s not unheard of for clubs to just put players like this, giving them the debut in the first team, just to be like, look, you’re in now,” Steele said. “Liverpool might put him on the bench for a few games to give him a taste.”
Liverpool Determined to Keep Their Best Young Prospect
For now, Abe remains a Liverpool player, but the battle to keep him is clearly underway. “There’s a lot of legs in that story and I don’t know where it’s going to go,” Steele admitted. “But they will be doing all they can to keep him because he’s very, very talented.”
The coming months could be pivotal in deciding where Abe’s long-term future lies. Liverpool’s actions — and the influence of his agent — will play a central role in determining whether he continues his development at Kirkby or is tempted by a move elsewhere.


