Liverpool are reportedly one of several Premier League clubs monitoring Ajax teenager Jorthy Mokio, who has already been labelled the next N’Golo Kante. At just 17 years old, Mokio has broken into Ajax’s first team with over 20 appearances since making his debut in the 2024-25 season. His rise has quickly put him on the radar of Europe’s biggest clubs.
Mokio’s reputation has grown because of his versatility. While primarily used as a holding midfielder, he has also impressed when filling in at centre-back. His energy, reading of the game, and ability to disrupt opposition play have seen him compared to Kante, who is widely considered one of the Premier League’s greatest midfielders.
Premier League Giants Join The Chase
Liverpool are not alone in their admiration of Mokio. Manchester United and Chelsea are also keeping a close watch, while Arsenal, Manchester City and Tottenham have been named among the interested parties. The teenager is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after talents in Europe.
Chelsea in particular are said to have scouted him extensively, continuing their trend of chasing the brightest prospects on the continent. With several English clubs circling, competition for his signature is expected to be fierce, especially if Ajax decide to cash in on their prized asset in the coming transfer windows.
Mokio Chooses Ajax Over European Giants
Last year, Mokio reportedly turned down approaches from Barcelona and Bayern Munich, instead opting to join Ajax. His decision was motivated by the Dutch club’s reputation for developing young players and giving them opportunities at senior level. That choice has already paid off, as he is now a regular part of Ajax’s first team squad despite his age.
Born in Ghent, Belgium, Mokio came through the ranks at local side Gent before moving to the Netherlands. His progress at club level earned him international recognition, and earlier this year he made his senior debut for Belgium when he came off the bench in a Nations League match against Ukraine in March.
Liverpool’s Midfield Evolution
Liverpool’s interest in Mokio comes at a time when the club are continuing to reshape their midfield for the future. After adding several midfielders in recent transfer windows, the Reds are seeking long-term options who can maintain energy and intensity at the heart of their team.
With Kante’s impact at Leicester City and Chelsea still fresh in memory, Liverpool may see Mokio as a potential anchor to balance attacking flair with defensive stability. The club’s recruitment strategy under Jürgen Klopp and his staff has often focused on players who can grow into elite performers, and Mokio fits that mould.
Michael Olise Attracts Liverpool And Manchester City
In another transfer story involving Liverpool, Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise is also being monitored closely. The Frenchman, who joined Bayern in 2024, is attracting attention from both Liverpool and Manchester City as the Premier League giants keep a close eye on his situation.
Olise has been linked with Liverpool as a possible long-term replacement for Mohamed Salah. With Salah’s current deal running until 2027, when he will be 35, the Reds are preparing for the future and Olise’s profile makes him an appealing option.
Bayern Face Key Decision On Olise
According to Bayern expert Christian Falk, Bayern Munich could look to improve Olise’s contract, which currently runs until 2029. He suggested Bayern may have to act sooner rather than later to secure the winger’s future.
“The case of Michael Olise’s contract at Bayern Munich bears some similarity to Jamal Musiala’s case – if you wait a little too long, it’s getting difficult,” Falk explained. “Manchester City are watching him, Liverpool are watching him. As long as his contract is running, you have a chance to keep him.”
Olise has impressed in Germany with his creativity, dribbling and ability to score from wide areas. His form has made him one of the standout young wingers in Europe, and Bayern face the challenge of keeping him satisfied while also working to lower the overall salary bill across the squad.
For Liverpool and Manchester City, the chance to lure Olise back to the Premier League could be tempting if Bayern hesitate. Both English clubs are carefully positioning themselves to strike should Bayern falter in negotiations.
