Journalist: Liverpool eyeing move to sign Brazilian wonderkid

Liverpool Maintain Interest in Brazilian Teenager Gabriel Mec Despite Market Challenges

Liverpool’s recruitment strategy continues to evolve under the stewardship of Michael Edwards and sporting director Richard Hughes, with South America once again part of the club’s long-term thinking. One name firmly on the radar is Gabriel Mec, the highly rated Grêmio teenager viewed internally as a developmental investment rather than an immediate solution for Arne Slot’s first team.

The club’s pursuit of elite young talent has often leaned towards Europe, but there is a growing acknowledgement that Liverpool must be more proactive in markets where rivals have gained a competitive edge. Mec represents that shift in approach: a player identified early, tracked closely, and assessed patiently rather than rushed into a decision driven by short-term need.

Recruitment Context and Liverpool’s South American Strategy

Liverpool’s relationship with the South American market has historically been cautious. While the club has monitored Brazil extensively, converting interest into completed deals has proven difficult, whether due to competition, timing or regulatory barriers. That has not stopped the current recruitment team from reassessing the landscape.

Mec, who is still only 17, is emblematic of a broader desire to identify high-ceiling talent before valuations escalate. Liverpool are fully aware that the teenager is not yet a finished product. Instead, the attraction lies in traits that are difficult to coach: technical assurance in tight spaces, confidence in possession and an instinctive understanding of how to manipulate defenders.

Under FIFA regulations, Mec cannot move to England until he turns 18 in April 2026. As a result, any potential transfer would be framed around a summer 2026 arrival at the earliest. That timeline aligns with Liverpool’s thinking, allowing further scouting, physical development and clarity around squad planning before any formal commitment is made.

Gabriel Mec Profile and Technical Attributes

Mec operates primarily from the left but is comfortable drifting into central areas, often functioning more like a creative midfielder than a traditional winger. His game is built around ball-carrying rather than early delivery, with a preference for cutting inside and engaging defenders one-on-one.

Those who have watched him closely point to his balance, close control and willingness to receive under pressure. He is a high-volume dribbler, capable of progressing play through congested zones, and shows an encouraging work rate without the ball. While his senior experience is limited to just two appearances for Grêmio, the technical foundations are already evident.

Physically, Mec remains a work in progress. He is still developing strength and durability, which is a key reason Liverpool view him strictly as a long-term project. The club’s assessment focuses less on current output and more on what he could become with structured coaching, physical conditioning and gradual exposure to higher levels of competition.

Potential Pathway Under Arne Slot

Any future move would be carefully managed. Mec would not be expected to step straight into Liverpool’s senior squad. Instead, the likely pathway would involve a period with the club’s under-21s, potentially followed by a loan designed to accelerate his adaptation to European football.

From a tactical perspective, his profile aligns with the demands Arne Slot places on attacking midfielders. Slot’s system relies heavily on players who can occupy half-spaces, rotate positions fluidly and press aggressively after turnovers. Mec’s comfort in central zones and willingness to engage defensively suggest he could, in time, fit that model.

Rather than being groomed as a touchline winger, he would more naturally project as a left-sided attacking midfielder or an inside forward who benefits from overlapping support. Liverpool’s interest reflects belief in his adaptability rather than a rigid positional plan.

Long-Term Value and Competitive Landscape

Liverpool are acutely aware that clubs such as Brighton and Manchester City have gained an advantage by acting decisively in South America. Mec is seen internally as the type of signing that could help close that gap: low immediate pressure, significant developmental upside and potential resale value even if he does not ultimately establish himself at Anfield.

Nothing is imminent, and competition for elite Brazilian prospects is fierce. However, Liverpool’s continued monitoring of Mec underlines a strategic patience that has defined their most successful recruitment decisions in recent years.

Whether that interest translates into a formal move remains to be seen, but Mec’s name is firmly logged, his progress closely tracked, and his profile one that fits Liverpool’s evolving vision for sustainable squad building.