Liverpool lead race for Scottish starlet

Liverpool have become the latest club to attempt to sign Hamilton Academicals youngster James McCarthy who has emerged as one of the hottest properties of the January transfer window.

The 16-year-old netted his first senior-level strike for the Accies in the weekend cup tie against Livingston, setting a record as the club's youngest-ever goalscorer, and his impressive form is understood to have tempted Rafael Benitez into making a bid.

Anfield scouts were able to run a closer eye than most over the attacking midfielder after he spent a week on trial at their Melwood base.

"From what I believe, Liverpool have tabled an offer for Jamie," Hamilton manager Billy Reid told Sky Sports.

"He went down there for a trial and played in a game for the reserves and he did exceedingly well. Jamie showed up well down there and they made an offer for him."

But the Reds will have to be swift if they are to land McCarthy with a number of other teams, both north and south of the border, ready to pounce.

"He is going down to Reading this week for a few days to take part in training and we will see how he goes down there," Reid concluded.

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