Romano confirms "concrete talks" between Liverpool and Norwegian wonderkid

Fabrizio Romano has claimed that Liverpool held talks over a move to sign Norwegian wonderkid Andreas Schjelderup - but he has now joined another club.

Schjelderup has been plying his trade in the Danish Superliga for Nordsjaelland, having graduated through the club's youth system following a move from Bodo/Glimt.

He made 55 league appearances for the former European football regulars, scoring 17 goals.

A total of 10 of goals have come this season, inside just 17 league games.

He is currently the Danish Superliga's top scorer, and the 18-year-old has attracted interest from across Europe.

It was claimed in 2020 that Liverpool's academy were interested in signing Schjelderup as a 16-year-old, but he opted for Denmark instead.

And the player, who has been compared to compatriot Erling Haaland as a result of his goalscoring form, has decided not to take up Liverpool's offer once again.

Norwegian outlet TV2 reported earlier this week that Benfica are set to seal a £12.5 million move and sign the 18-year-old on a five-year deal.

Romano has revealed that they certainly had competition from Jurgen Klopp's side.

Romano on Liverpool Schjelderup talks

Speaking on his YouTube channel, Romano admitted: "Liverpool wanted Schjelderup. They had meetings. They spoke to the people close to the player to sign Schjelderup. Not now, but in the summer of 2023.

"Liverpool, a super club, wanted the player. But the player decided to go for Benfica because he feels it is the best step now for his career. Of course, he was not rejecting Liverpool.

"Remember what Erling Haaland did when he was at Molde. He had the chance to go to Juventus or, before he was at Dortmund, to join Manchester United."

The Norwegian will now look to advance his career in Liga Portugal with Benfica - but Liverpool may well be keeping track of his progress for a potential move further down the line.

Benfica have now confirmed that a deal is done, with Schjelderup joining the Portuguese giants on a permanent deal on a contract until the summer of 2028.