Liverpool transfer news: Ben Woodburn snubs Barcelona interest to sign new long-term deal at Anfield
The 18-year-old Welsh international burst on the scene last season, and has put pen to paper to commit his future to the Reds
BEN WOODBURN has snubbed interest from Barcelona to commit his long-term future to Liverpool.
The 18-year-old has expressed his delight at signing a new deal with the Reds, where he is keen for more first team appearances under Jurgen Klopp.
Woodburn - who became the clubs youngest ever goalscorer when he scored against Leeds United in the EFL Cup last season - has been linked with a switch to La Liga side Barca, according to reports in Spain.
However he has shunned interest from the Catalan club, and told Liverpool's website: "It’s an unbelievable feeling to sign a new contract with Liverpool.
“This is the club I want to stay at and be here as long as possible. When I was told, all I wanted to do was sign the contract.
“It feels good. Now I just want to carry on and hopefully show the manager what I can do.”
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Woodburn became a household name with Welsh fans when he netted on his international debut against Austria last month in a crucial World Cup qualifier.
He has since went on to be capped on four occasions for the Dragons under Chris Coleman, and Klopp has been fast to tie him down to a new deal.
The talented teenager added of the contract: "I think there is loads of room for improvement. I’ve just got to keep working and trying in training every day and hopefully I will improve.
"Defending and maybe getting a few more goals [are what I want to improve]. Just trying to come in with the first team and play like a first-team player.
"But I think I’ve grown as a player and matured physically and technically, and grown in confidence.
"For the rest of this season, my aim is just to carry on, try to play as many games for the U19s and first team. Hopefully I will get some more appearances for the first team and progress in the U19s Champions League."
Woodburn - who was named as Liverpool's Academy Player of the Year for the 2016/17 season - has made just one senior match this campaign.
