Mor Ndiaye's first words after Liverpool signing amid Sadio Mane message

Liverpool announced the signing of Senegal youth center-back Mor Talla Ndiaye, with the 18-year-old defender joining the Reds on a four-and-a-half year deal

Mor Talla Ndiaye has completed his move to Liverpool(Image: Getty Images)

Mor Talla Ndiaye has revealed that Sadio Mane inspired his dream to play for Liverpool, following the completion of his transfer to Anfield.

The Reds confirmed the acquisition of the Senegal youth center-back on Friday, with the 18-year-old joining the club's Under-21s from Amitie FC in his home country. The deal is thought to be worth around £1 million ($1.3M) and the young player has signed a four-and-a-half year professional contract with Liverpool.

Liverpool scouts spotted the Senegal Under-17s international at the recent World Cup in Qatar, where the left-sided center-back made four appearances, helping his nation reach the knockout stages. The transfer was facilitated by Matt Newberry, Liverpool's head of global talent at Anfield.

Although he's just starting his journey with Liverpool, Ndiaye will aspire to emulate his compatriot, Mane.

Mane became a modern legend for the Reds under Jurgen Klopp, clinching every major title during his six years at the club and netting 120 goals, reports the Liverpool Echo.

After finalising his move to Anfield, Ndiaye took to social media to admit that Mane was one of his inspirations and expressed his joy at completing a 'dream' move.

"I am very happy to join @liverpoolfc for my first experience abroad," he penned on Instagram. "It is a dream club, with a magnificent history and a rich record of success, shaped by great players, including Sadio Mane, who made me dream in this shirt.

"I would like to thank my former coaches, as well as the staff at Bou Sports and Amitie FC , my close circle, @bousport221 and @aziz_ibn_aicha, along with my president Demba Ba and my agents for their support.

"I cannot forget anyone. The work is only just beginning for all of us. Together, we will succeed by the grace of God!".

Sharing several photos from his Liverpool unveiling, Ndiaye included one alongside former Chelsea and Newcastle United forward Demba Ba.

The ex-Senegal international, who famously thwarted Liverpool's Premier League title hopes in 2014, retired from playing in 2021. Now aged 40, he owns Ndiaye's previous club, Amitie FC in Senegal.