Given the fierce and historic rivalry between the two clubs, transfers between Liverpool and Manchester United are incredibly rare. In the modern era, Michael Owen, Peter Beardsley and Paul Ince are the only men to have represented both at senior level. In fact, Phil Chisnall all the way back in 1964 is the last male player to transfer directly from one to the other.
While that remains the case, it is also rare for academy players to swap Anfield for Old Trafford, or vice versa, making this news certainly noteworthy. On Monday afternoon, Manchester United confirmed the signing of Isaac Konde from Liverpool. They describe the 16 year old as a "talented youngster", and "wish him the very best of luck" at the club.
So, who is he, and should Liverpool supporters be up in arms about this news? Well, first and foremost, fans will be wondering what sort of fee the Reds may receive. While negotiations are ongoing, with regards a compensation package, given Konde's age and inexperience, based on previous fees, this is likely to be around the £80,000 mark, Although, Andy Mitten of the Athletic is suggesting that it "will reach seven figures".
More importantly, who is Konde? Born and raised on Merseyside, he joined Liverpool as a nine year old in 2018 and is described by Mitten as a "rapid attacking player". A coach Mitten spoke to labelled him "fast, direct and a very exciting prospect, an off-the-shoulder winger", comparing Konde to "Nani or Wilfried Zaha".
Konde saw his first minutes for Liverpool's under-18s last season, featuring six times in the Professional U18 Development League, of which only two were starts. Thus, he is quite a long way off making a first team breakthrough, but could be one to keep an eye on in the future.
Set to celebrate his 17th birthday next month, Konde has signed a one-year scholarship at Manchester United, before putting pen to paper on a first-ever professional contract next summer. He is of Congolese heritage, so their federation are likely to be monitoring the teenager's progress.
The Leopards featured at a first World Cup since 1974 this summer, thanks partially to mass dual-national recruitment. Their current squad features English born and/or raised players such as Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Axel Tuanzebe, Aaron Tshibola, Stephy Mavididi, Paris Maghoma and others.
From a Liverpool perspective, only time will tell if this is a major transfer window faux pas, or if we never hear Konde's name again.
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