Liverpool’s main transfer target is ruled out of a move to the club this summer.

Liverpool’s attempt to sign Hertha Berlin midfielder Kennet Eichhorn could be complicated by regulatory hurdles.

The Reds are reportedly battling Premier League rivals Manchester City for the 16-year-old’s signature, after his standout performances in Hertha’s 2. Bundesliga campaign during the 2025–26 season. Bayern Munich are also in the race, with the German champions said to be open to Eichhorn’s interest, alongside other top Bundesliga clubs.

However, Bayern and other European sides may hold a significant advantage in securing his services, thanks to long-standing pathways for elite young German talents within the domestic system.

BBC Sport reporter Dale Johnson explained that Liverpool’s situation is impacted by post-Brexit transfer rules. He noted that, unlike clubs in most European leagues, English teams are not allowed to sign foreign players under 18.

According to Johnson, Eichhorn—currently 16—could move freely within Europe, but cannot officially join an English club until he turns 18, meaning a transfer would have to wait until July 2027 unless he obtains a UK passport. He also added that English clubs cannot sign such players early and loan them out, a strategy sometimes used elsewhere in Europe.

While pre-agreements are possible, Johnson stressed that Brexit rules put English clubs at a disadvantage, limiting their ability to secure young European talent early or exploit relatively low release clauses.

Eichhorn is believed to have a release clause in the region of €10–12 million, and interest in him has grown rapidly since his breakthrough at Hertha. He made 16 league appearances this season as the Berlin side finished seventh, with his reputation as a defensive midfielder rising sharply.

Bayern Munich’s interest is well known, while Borussia Dortmund and Bayer Leverkusen are also monitoring the highly rated teenager.