Ruben Neves to Liverpool: Reds 'leading the chase' to sign Porto wonderkid

The 18-year-old is already captain for Porto

Ruben Neves competes with Cesc Fabregas for the ball

Liverpool are leading the chase to sign Porto wonderkid Ruben Neves, according to reports.

The 18-year-old midfielder, who became the youngest captain in Champions League history this week when he wore the armband for Porto in their win over Maccabi Tel Aviv, is regarded as one of the brightest prospects in world football. Liverpool had sent scouts to watch the player in that game.

The Mirror have reported that the Reds are in pole position to sign the player, who they have been scouting for some time. He is represented by super-agent Jorge Mendes, who also has Cristiano Ronaldo, Jose Mourinho and David De Gea on his books.

Neves made 37 appearances for Porto last season. He has yet to represent Portugal at senior international level.

A previous report states that recently appointed Liverpool manager Jurgen Klopp would give the move his blessing.

Upon joining Liverpool Klopp said that he wants the final say on all transfers.

The German, whose passion for the club made owners Fenway Sports Group choose him over Carlo Ancelotti for the post, is happy to work with Liverpool’s infamous transfer committee having operated under a similar structure at Borussia Dortmund.

“The only thing I need is players that want to help the team,” he said. “They have to listen to what I say, that is very important, because I believe it is better to have 11 players do the same thing wrong than everybody doing what they want. We have to do it one way and that way is my way.”