Gilberto Mora has reportedly made his preference clear between Liverpool, Real Madrid and Barcelona, with the Mexico international increasingly expected to leave Tijuana for Europe in a record-breaking deal.
The 17-year-old has rapidly emerged as one of the leading young talents in North America.
Mora has already established himself as a regular starter for both club and country, scoring five goals in seven appearances for Tijuana this season.
At international level, he has collected 13 senior caps for Mexico and was trusted to start against England in the World Cup round of 16.
That level of progress has inevitably attracted attention from across Europe, with several heavyweight clubs monitoring his situation.
Liverpool are understood to be among the Premier League clubs showing strong interest.
TEAMtalk recently reported that the Reds had made direct contact with Mora’s representatives, with sources describing the club’s interest as “serious”.
However, Liverpool could face significant competition from Spain.
Why Gilberto Mora Prefers Spain Over Liverpool
According to Football Insider’s Pete O’Rourke, Mora’s preference is to move to La Liga rather than join Liverpool.
O’Rourke reports that the youngster would favour a move to either Real Madrid or Barcelona when he eventually leaves Tijuana.
That could give Real Madrid and Barcelona an advantage if either club decides to pursue a deal.
When Could Gilberto Mora Move to Europe?
Mora turns 18 on October 14, meaning an international transfer to Europe can take place once the relevant registration rules and transfer window requirements are met.
However, a move in 2027 is currently expected.
That gives Liverpool, Real Madrid and Barcelona time to assess the situation, but Mora’s rapidly increasing profile means competition for his signature could intensify considerably.
Could Gilberto Mora Break the Liga MX Transfer Record?
The financial side of the deal could be just as significant.
TEAMtalk reports that a fee around £20 million could be enough to convince Tijuana to sell, while Football Insider reports that the club could demand up to £40 million.
Either figure would put Mora in contention to become the most expensive Liga MX player ever sold.
The current benchmark is the reported $20 million (£15 million) transfer of Maxi Araujo from Toluca to Sporting CP in 2024.
Mora’s eventual departure could therefore set a new Liga MX transfer record — with Liverpool, Real Madrid and Barcelona all potentially battling for one of Mexico’s brightest young talents.
