Liverpool
EXCLUSIVE: How Liverpool landed £1.5m transfer bargain ahead of several Premier League rivals

Lee Clark speaks to the ECHO’s Keifer MacDonald about how son Bobby came to sign for Liverpool and the exciting next steps he could take as Anfield’s dream unfolds.
When Liverpool and Newcastle United lock horns on Sunday afternoon, there’ll be no love lost from either side.
Indeed, after last season’s seemingly never-ending back-and-forth between both camps, the Reds’ hopes of laying down an early marker in the race for Champions League redemption will be soundtracked by a ferocious St James’ Park.
In attendance in the North East on Sunday afternoon will be former Magpies midfielder Lee Clark, who is regarded as one of the best to pull on the black and white shirt during the Premier League era. Though this weekend will see his allegiances to his boyhood club conflicted as he, and the rest of the Clark family, prepare themselves for a landmark moment.
Set to be involved in Liverpool’s traveling contingent is Lee’s son, Bobby Clark, who made the tough decision to end his seven-year stint at Newcastle’s academy in the summer of 2021. Now, Sunday could see the 18-year-old handed a Premier League outing on familiar territory.
Bobby enjoyed a pre-season breakthrough this summer in the Far East as he bagged his first goal for Liverpool during the 4-0 thrashing of Leicester City at the Singapore National Stadium. And while some supporters may have only then taken notice of the winger-turned-midfielder, he has been on the footballing main stage for most of his junior years.
Having trained with Birmingham City’s Youth Development Centre during his father’s stint as first-team manager at St Andrew’s between 2012 and 2014, Bobby later visited all three of the leading clubs in the North East – Sunderland, Middlesbrough, and Newcastle – when the family relocated back to the area and eventually committed his immediate years to the Magpies.
Upon deciding that a move away from Newcastle would serve best in his pursuit to make a breakthrough in the Premier League, the midfielder was the subject of a charm offensive approach from some of the division’s biggest clubs in the summer of 2021. Liverpool, though, would ultimately win the race for his signature with the helping hand of Reds legend Terry McDermott.
“Why Liverpool? Well, it’s because Bobby felt that was the best place for him after a meeting with different clubs,” says Lee. “I was working away at the time – coaching overseas – and was keeping in touch with Bobby. Once he decided to leave Newcastle, he held talks with the four or five clubs who had agreed with Newcastle.
“But he was just blown away by how much Liverpool knew about him, how much in-depth knowledge they had of him, and also their stance was that they weren’t signing him to help them win the FA Youth Cup, or be successful at under-21s level, but because one day they believed he could be a first-team player for Liverpool.
“Bobby knows about history, he’s really into his football and knows about the history of Liverpool Football Club and what it stands for. He’s also seen close family friends of ours like Terry McDermott since he’d been a young boy and understood what Liverpool means.”
Even with his commitments overseas as he served as managed of Sudan-based side Al-Merrikh, Lee was able to join in on a decisive call with leading figures of Liverpool’s Academy before Bobby was shown around Anfield and the AXA Training Centre as talks over a deal £1.5 million deal continued.
“It’s worked out terrific, he’s settled in so quickly,” adds Lee, reflecting on his son’s first years at Anfield. “Liverpool couldn’t have done any more for him. They got him in with a lovely family in the Merseyside area and now he’s got his place down there. It’s been a terrific move for Bobby, we’ve been delighted with how it’s gone. His progress has been even quicker than we imagined.
“A lot of people don’t believe me, but I never affected the outcome of which club Bobby was going to go to. It was Bobby’s decision, albeit forced on him due to various things to leave Newcastle, and then he decided that Liverpool was his club.
“At Newcastle, it just got to the stage where I was working away and getting feedback that Bobby was coming in from his training sessions at the club and didn’t have that beaming smile on his face. He didn’t seem to be enjoying his football.
“We discussed it and he decided it was his time to move on. So when he made that decision we had to support him as a family.
“Of course, I’m a Geordie, I’m back and white through and through and there aren’t many fathers and sons that have played for the club. As soon as he got into the academy at Newcastle, could that dream become a reality? But I wasn’t going to make that happen to the detriment of my son. If he was unhappy there, it’s his happiness that is most important to me. I just backed Bobby every step of the way.
“As his parent first and foremost, I backed him up 100%. Now, we speak on the phone every day about various things and I’ll advise him. I’ll tell him how I would go about things from a player’s point of view or a coaching point of view. I can give him different slants on how to approach different situations.”
Instrumental in Liverpool sealing a deal for the highly-rated teenager was Jurgen Klopp’s track record of offering opportunities to members of the Academy, with Trent Alexander-Arnold and Curtis Jones blazing the trail for Ben Doak, Stefan Bajcetic and Bobby to follow.
Just 12 months after his move to Anfield the youngster was successful in catching the eye of the Reds’ boss, who handed him his Premier League bow from the bench against Bournemouth last August, aged just 17.
“It was an incredible moment,” says Lee, recalling Clark’s debut. “I remember being there. It surpassed anything I achieved in my career to see that happen. I was so proud, I’m hoping that there’s more to come, I think there will be. First and foremost, it’s up to Bobby and it’s in his hands.”
Having won just one of his four visits to Anfield as a player during his time with Newcastle and Fulham, the 50-year-old added: “It’s completely different when it’s your boy who’s got the support of the Anfield crowd rather than having them against you. That is very difficult to start with because not only are you playing against top players but also a magnificent set of supporters.
“I had experienced that as an away player but now to see the support they’re giving my son, it’s surreal.”
And even while being in the unfamiliar surroundings of Liverpool’s home end as he took to the Main Stand to watch his son make his Premier League debut last summer, James Milner – turning out for the Reds that day – was one of a few faces he recognized from his 16-year stint in the professional game.
“I didn’t know about the stat [before the game], I heard about it on one of the radio stations afterward,” laughs Lee, discussing James’s Milner longevity in the English game by playing alongside Lee and Bobby 17 years apart. “It’s unique for a player to say they have played with a father and son in the Premier League, it just shows you the longevity of James.
“I already knew what James was about because I played with him at Newcastle when he was coming through and then when I retired in 2006 I became the reserve team manager and later a first-team coach. I knew people like James would be the perfect example for Bobby in terms of how to behave on and off the pitch, and how you become a player who started in the Premier League at 16 and is still playing 21 years later. He’s still delivering outstanding performances, his fitness levels, his dedication
“I remember every single day when I coached him he would come at the end of the session with a bag of balls and we would practice his short passing, long passing, corner kicks, free-kicks, fitness work, work with the ball. It was every single day. And that’s the bits that people don’t see.
“When I knew there were people like James around at Liverpool, I knew Bobby would have great mentors to look up to, great professionals to watch and learn from.”
And with the exits of Milner, Jordan Henderson, Fabinho, Naby Keita, and Alex Olxade-Chamberlain this summer, opportunities could emerge for Bobby this campaign as Liverpool looks to combat the grueling Thursday-Sunday scheduling of the Europa League.
Though with less than a week of the summer transfer window remaining, despite interest from sides in the English Football League, the 18-year-old’s short-term future on Merseyside is far from decided.
“They could follow the route they did with Harvey Elliott where they ask him to get experience in the men’s game for a year, but that decision hasn’t been made yet. I’m sure it will be in Bobby and Liverpool’s best interest whatever they decide to do,” says Lee.
“I don’t think they will want Bobby to be around the under-21s for too long, you know. He broke into that side as a 17-year-old and has been a regular all the way through. I don’t think they’ll want him to spend too much time at that level because he has to get used to playing first-team football, where there’s a real necessity to get results.
“The difference in terms of the first-team this year is the crazy number of games they face if they are to be successful in the Europa League and go on to win that, it’s a crazy number.
“I think a lot of teams who have played in the Europa League before have found it difficult to get a good rhythm between the Europa League and the Premier League.
“In the early rounds of the Carabao Cup, Jurgen has always been a manager willing to give chances to youngsters in that competition so there could still be an opportunity this season. And if he plays well, look what happened with Stefan Bajcetic. Stefan’s an example for everybody, he saw a little opening in the door and kicked the door open. Now he’s become a regular first-team player, thoroughly deserved. It’s all about taking those opportunities.”
In the meantime, though, all of the Clarks’ attention will turn to St James’ Park this Sunday afternoon where Bobby will be looking to crown a remarkable first two years at Anfield.
“Certainly, if Bobby’s involved, I’d love to see him get on the pitch. It would be a nice way for him to open his goal-scoring account for Liverpool…I’d take a 1-1 with Bobby scoring the equalizer,” laughs Lee. “I once scored the winner against Newcastle for Fulham, down in London, and my father was in the Newcastle away end and I think I got a fair bit of grief off him!”
Liverpool
“Isaac Kearney Honors Mohamed Salah on His Birthday with a Royal Tribute”
Isaac Kearney Honors Mohamed Salah on His Birthday with a Royal Tribute
In a touching gesture that captured hearts online, young Liverpool fan Isaac Kearney celebrated the birthday of his football hero, Mohamed Salah, with a heartfelt message that proves how deeply the Egyptian King continues to inspire fans across all generations.
On his official social media page — managed by his mother, Melissa — Isaac shared a simple yet powerful post:
Isaac Kearney birthday message to Mohammed Salah
“Happy birthday to my King 👑 @mosalah”
Those few words, filled with admiration and loyalty, resonated with fans who understand just how much Salah means to the Liverpool family — and especially to young fans like Isaac.
Isaac, known among close followers for his vibrant love for football and especially for Liverpool FC, has always looked up to Salah. Whether it’s mimicking his goal celebrations in the living room or wearing the No. 11 jersey with pride, Isaac sees more than just a footballer in Mo Salah — he sees a role model, a legend, and a true king on and off the pitch.
Melissa, Isaac’s mum, who manages his page, shared the message with warmth and intentionality, showing how even the youngest fans have a voice in celebrating football greatness. “It’s more than just football,” she once said. “For Isaac, Salah represents discipline, humility, and greatness with grace.”
Salah, who turned 33 today, has built a legacy that extends far beyond goals and trophies. His impact on young hearts like Isaac’s shows the true power of sports — to inspire, to connect, and to lift others.
Though it was a short birthday wish, it carried the kind of royal weight only a true fan can give. From one king to another, Isaac’s message was a reminder that heroes live not just on the field, but in the way they shape the dreams of those who watch them.
Happy Birthday to Mohamed Salah — from Isaac, and from the countless hearts he’s inspired.
Liverpool
Darwin Núñez’s Liverpool Exit Looms as Saudi and European Giants Circle
Darwin Núñez’s Liverpool Exit Looms as Saudi and European Giants Circle
Darwin Núñez appears increasingly likely to part ways with Liverpool this summer, as serious interest builds from both Saudi Arabia and top European clubs. According to trusted transfer insider Fabrizio Romano, the Uruguayan striker’s time at Anfield may be drawing to a close.
Clubs in the Saudi Pro League have been monitoring Núñez closely since the start of the year and are now preparing concrete offers. These proposals are expected to include highly attractive financial packages that could tempt both Liverpool and Núñez himself.
Meanwhile, Serie A giants Napoli have also emerged as a strong contender. The Italian side is reported to have made contact with Núñez’s representatives in recent days, identifying him as a key addition to strengthen their attack. Talks between the two parties are expected to intensify in the coming days.
At just 24, Núñez remains open to different possibilities. While the offers from Saudi Arabia are financially compelling, he is also seriously considering staying in Europe, with a focus on clubs that can offer both a strong sporting project and long-term growth.
As the summer transfer window heats up, Darwin Núñez’s future is shaping up to be one of the most intriguing sagas to follow.
Liverpool
Liverpool’s dream starting XI next season looks unbeatable if two more signings take summer spending to £500m
Arne Slot could field a seriously impressive team if Liverpool make complete two more stunning deals.
Liverpool could put together a seriously impressive lineup if they complete just two more dream signings this summer.
On May 30, Liverpool announced their first signing of what is expected to be a busy summer as Jeremie Frimpong was revealed as the club’s replacement for Trent Alexander-Arnold.
The move came amid rumours that the Reds are also pursuing a club-record deal for Frimpong’s former Bayer Leverkusen teammate Florian Wirtz alongside Bournemouth defender Milos Kerkez.
But even after the expected deals for Wirtz and Kerkez are finalised, it is widely believed that Liverpool will continue to be active in the transfer market as Arne Slot looks to add to his Premier League winning squad.
And if they are able to pull off two more dream signings, then they could seriously be considered as the greatest team in the entire world.
Alongside the deals for Wirtz and Kerkez, it has been reported that Liverpool hope to bring in a new striker at some point over the summer, with the likes of Hugo Ekitike and Julian Alvarez both linked.
However, it has long been known that Newcastle United star Alexander Isak would be the club’s ideal signing should it become clear that a deal would be possible,
Reports earlier in the season claimed that the Magpies would demand a massive fee of more than £150million in order to facilitate a transfer for the Swedish international, who scored 23 Premier League goals in 34 appearances this season.
But with reports suggesting that Liverpool could sell one or both of Darwin Nunez or Luis Diaz for as much as £80m, such a high price tag may not be out of the question for the Reds.
Should Diaz leave the club, then Liverpool will no doubt explore the marker or a new winger to start on the left of their attack, and rumours have suggested that Paris Saint-Germain star Bradley Barcola is top of their list.
The 22-year-old has emerged as one of the most exciting young wingers in the world this season after impressing for the Champions League winners this season, making 58 appearances in all competitions despite not being a regular starter.
A report from The Guardian revealed that Liverpool would be willing to spend £100m on the Frenchman should they be open to letting him go when the summer transfer window reopens next week.
If Liverpool were somehow able to pull off incredible transfers, it is likely it would bring their total spend for the summer up to nearly £500m, although a lot of this would be offset by the expected sales of several players.
And in doing so, they would undoubtedly create would could be the best starting XI in all of football and potentially one of the most impressive Premier League sides of all time.
Liverpool
Isaac Kearney’s Hearing Test Brings Hopeful News: A Journey Marked by Progress
Little warrior Isaac Kearney continues to inspire everyone with his unwavering courage and steady progress.
In a recent update shared by his devoted mum, Isaac had another important appointment—this time for a hearing test and a review of his hearing aids.
The day began with optimism as Isaac headed off to the clinic with his ever-cheerful spirit. Later, his mum shared the results of the visit, and the news was truly heartwarming:
“Hearing test went well ☺️ — They actually said his hearing has improved slightly 😬”
In response to the encouraging results, Isaac’s hearing aids were carefully adjusted, and a follow-up appointment has been scheduled in three months for continued review and support.
This small but significant improvement is a powerful reminder of how far Isaac has come. From facing uncertainty about even being able to walk, to now actively engaging in life and appointments like any other child, his story continues to touch hearts and uplift spirits across the globe.
To every supporter who has stood by Isaac with prayers, kind words, and encouragement—thank you. Every positive update is a victory not just for Isaac and his family, but for everyone who believes in his journey.
Liverpool
Liverpool fans claim Trent Alexander-Arnold is ‘already regretting move’ after hearing first Real Madrid supporters’ chant
Liverpool fans are convinced that Trent Alexander-Arnold is regretting leaving the club after hearing the first chant from Real Madrid supporters.
Despite his contract expiring at the end of June, Real Madrid agreed to pay Liverpool a fee of £10million in order to register new signing Alexander-Arnold in time for the revamped Club World Cup which is set to get underway on Sunday.
Two weeks after the deal was officially announced, the defender is set to be officially unveiled as a Real Madrid player during a presentation at the Bernabeu on Thursday.
As Alexander-Arnold arrived for the presentation, dozens of Real Madrid fans waited outside to greet him, debuting their new chant for their star signing.
But it’s safe to say that Liverpool fans are not impressed with the chant, as they’ve claimed that Alexander-Arnold’s reaction shows that he is already regretting his decision to join the Spanish giants.
As he met with club officials outside a medical centre in Madrid, the 26-year-old was greeted by a group of fans chanting “Arnold” and applauding his arrival.
Footage of the chant comes a day after it was revealed that Alexander-Arnold would swap the iconic number 66 for the the number 12 due to La Liga rules stating that shirt numbers must fall between 1 and 25.
Surprisingly, the defender also decided to make a major change to his shirt as he will now wear his first name on the back of his shirt instead of his surname.
And Liverpool fans are convinced that Real Madrid supporters’ seemingly ignoring this ‘rebrand’ and continuing to chant part of his surname will undoubtedly frustrate the Englishman.
Writing on X, one fan posted a laughing emoji alongside: “Shouting “Arnold!” after he’s just rebranded everything to ‘Trent'”
While one claimed: “‘Arnold’ chants yeah man I know he’s regretting everything already”
And another wrote: “He used to have so much Aura, wtf happened.”
https://x.com/FabrizioRomano/status/1933095758917501179
The 26-year-old is the second player to be unveiled by Real Madrid this summer, after former Bournemouth star Dean Huijsen was revealed as Xabi Alonso’s first signing at a presentation on June 10.
Although it is not yet known exactly when Alexander-Arnold will make his debut for the La Liga side, it is likely that it could happen as early as June 18 during Real Madrid’s Club World Cup clash against Saudi Pro League side Al Hilal.
Liverpool
After Opening Up About Isaac’s Health, Melissa and Son Send Touching Message to Supporters
After Opening Up About Isaac’s Health, Melissa and Son Send Touching Message to Supporters
Following her emotional revelation about her son Isaac’s health, Melissa Kearney has returned with another heartfelt video—this time featuring Isaac himself.
In a candid and emotional message to fans, Melissa expressed her gratitude for the overwhelming support that poured in after she opened up about their private struggle. The video, simple yet deeply touching, showed both mother and son taking a moment to thank the Liverpool community and supporters from around the world.
“Hi everyone, I just want to jump on to say, I just can’t keep up with the messages,” Melissa began, her voice heavy with emotion. “I had absolutely hundreds and hundreds of messages since I put the post about Isaac last night.”
She went on to explain that speaking publicly about Isaac’s condition was not something they often do. “We very rarely speak about what is going on in the backgrounds, and that is just our way of coping with it… That was a big thing for us last night to put that out there.”
Melissa’s vulnerability struck a chord with supporters, and the response was overwhelming. “The support from Liverpool supporters, from all over the world, is absolutely unbelievable. Thank you all so much, we are so grateful.”
In the heartwarming clip, she turned to her son, Isaac, asking if he had anything to say. The little boy, soft-spoken but sincere, simply said:
“Thank you for those support… We love you all.”
Melissa closed the video with deep appreciation:
“Thank you, everyone, so much. It means a lot to me, Alan, and our family.”
As Isaac waved goodbye and made a little heart gesture for fans, the sincerity of the moment was impossible to miss.
The video is not just a thank you—it’s a window into the strength, humility, and love this family shares, even in the face of adversity.
👉 Watch the full video here:
Liverpool
Agent confirms star player has signed five year deal with Liverpool
This summer Liverpool are building for the future and they have wrapped up the signature of another exciting talent.
It’s a summer when Richard Hughes and Michael Edwards are on a mission to build a dynasty at Anfield.
The Reds are already Premier League champions but the club’s recruitment team has an eye on the future.
They know that Arne Slot has inherited a squad that’s largely not his but Jurgen Klopp’s. Now Hughes and Edwards have made it their mission to build a team in the Dutchman’s image.
This involves bringing in players who are more suited to Slot’s style of play. The first of those arrivals will be Jeremie Frimpong, who has already been confirmed as Liverpool’s first signing of the summer.
Florian Wirtz and Milos Kerkez both only 22-years-old and 21-years-old respectively are a part of that future vision as well.
And they are not alone. Liverpool have signed another future prospect this summer.
The club confirmed the arrival of Armin Pecsi on their official website. Only 20-years-old, Pecsi is a surprising arrival at Anfield.
He is a player not many expected the Reds to sign, partly because he is a relatively unknown figure in European football.
But it’s a shrewd signing for an under the radar gem, who Liverpool believe has long-term potential to be the first choice goalkeeper at the club.
We know Liverpool have big future plans for Pecsi but the club did not reveal just how long of a contract he had signed at Liverpool.
Now this has been confirmed by his agent.
Pecsi’s agent, Matyas Esterhazy, who also represents Dominik Szoboszlai, gave a detailed interview to M4 Sport and revealed the length of the contract the Hungarian goalkeeper has signed with the club.
The reporter asked what the length of Pecsi’s contract was.
“Five years,” Esterhazy confirmed.
Esterhazy also went onto explain the plan for Pecsi at the Reds next season.
“Armin will be at Liverpool next season,” he said.
“This was one of the most important links in our decision. We chose Liverpool because they outlined a professional plan that we can identify with, and Armin is a very intelligent, patient and ambitious player.”
Five years is a long deal to give to a 20-year-old goalkeeper. However, it just goes to show the level of commitment from the Reds.
They signed Pecsi for the long-term and they will hope their investment pays off in the coming years. It’s another example of Hughes not only buying players for the present but for the future as well.
Liverpool
“Still Smiling: Isaac’s Battle and the Road to Healing”
When you meet Isaac Kearney, the first thing that strikes you isn’t his condition — it’s his radiant smile.
A smile that disarms, heals, and brings light to the darkest moments. But behind that smile is a quiet battle that many never see.
Recently, Melissa, Isaac’s mum, shared an emotional update on his health. After speaking with consultants, it was confirmed that Isaac’s skull—at his current age—was expected to have fully closed and formed together. Sadly, this hasn’t happened.
His skull remains wide open, a condition that now calls for something no parent wants to hear: full facial and skull reconstruction surgery.
The gravity of such a procedure is immense. It’s not just cosmetic — it’s life-improving and life-sustaining. The doctors believe this surgery will help Isaac breathe better, sleep more peacefully, and eat with greater ease. Things that many take for granted, Isaac has had to work through with incredible resilience.
Melissa’s words were filled with both strength and sorrow:
“This is not the news I was wanting to hear, but we always knew it would come to this. The skull is just so wide open. So now, the waiting begins for this to happen.”
It’s a wait filled with prayers, questions, and quiet courage.
But if there’s anything we’ve all learned from Isaac, it’s that joy can coexist with pain. In every hospital hallway, during every checkup, in every photo—Isaac smiles. His countenance remains therapeutic, and his spirit unshaken.
As this new chapter begins, one thing is certain: Isaac doesn’t walk this road alone. He is carried on the shoulders of love, covered by the prayers of strangers and friends alike, and embraced by a growing community who believe in his light.
If his story has ever touched you, inspired you, or made you smile — now is the time to stand with him. Share his story. Send him a word of encouragement. And follow his journey as this little warrior steps into yet another brave moment.
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