by Lewis Ambrose

Highly rated Charlton defender Joe Gomez has reportedly chosen to sign for Liverpool.

The defender only turned 18 in May but featured 24 times for Charlton last season, including 21 appearances made in the Championship.

It was understood that Arsenal, Manchester United and Bournemouth were all interested in the England youth international but he will be moving to Anfield.

According to talkSPORT the defender has a £3.5M release clause in the defender’s contract and a deal could be completed as early as Friday.

Blow

Arsenal have had a good record with youth signings but this news shouldn’t come as too much of a blow – had he signed for Arsenal he would have been fifth choice centre-back.

Gomez, 18, can also play right-back but Arsenal are also well stocked in that area with Mathieu Debuchy, Hector Bellerin, Calum Chambers and Carl Jenkinson all capable of playing on that side of the defence.

Gomez has represented England at u16, u17 and u19 level making a total of 17 appearances and will look to build on the impressive start to his career at Liverpool.

The Merseyside club struggled last season and Gomez could find himself afforded first team opportunities early into his stay at the club.