Liverpool have completed the signing of highly rated youngster Bobby Duncan, after fending off strong competition to get the forward to sign a three-year deal.
Duncan, 17, is the cousin of former Liverpool player and club legend Steven Gerrard and has represented England at youth international level.
The Whiston-born player left Manchester City last August but they retained his registration with the club.
Duncan then effectively sat out the season and trained with Wigan Athletic's first team, playing in behind closed doors games.
A lack of playing time did not affect his international career however, and he continued to be picked by England Under-17s boss Steve Cooper.
Duncan was part of the team which reached the semi-finals of last month's UEFA Under-17 European Championships.
Liverpool have since moved in to complete the deal, and have agreed a compensation package with City worth in the region of £200,000.
Tottenham, Juventus and Monaco also tried to sign the player, showing his desirability across the European stage.
Duncan will begin training with his new club when Liverpool regroup for pre-season on July 2.
yubamntyz
39
hope liverpool will eventually give its acedemy players a chance in the first team...we need a local hero like fowler, gerrard, owen, etc