Liverpool have won the race for Salford City's teenage striker Will Wright ahead of Arsenal and Manchester City.
Arsenal had agreed a £200,000 fee with Salford two weeks ago with a further £50,000 to follow across the season in achievable add-ons.
Talks had been progressing well with his representatives but Liverpool, who had led the initial race for the 17-year-old, came back in at the weekend and matched Arsenal's offer.
Leeds United and Rangers also made late enquiries, as did Nottingham Forest, while City, though big admirers, have already committed sizeable funds to other youth signings.