Manchester City have beaten Rangers and Liverpool to the signing of Kilmarnock winger Liam Smith, according to reports in the Scottish media.

The 16-year-old has not played for the Killie first team yet but a standout performance for Scotland’s Under 16s against Malta in March is said to have attracted the attention of a host of clubs.

City are believed to have opened initial talks with Smith at the start of the season, with the midfielder now expected to move to the Etihad Stadium.

Kilmarnock were hopeful of getting more money for the left-winger but the English club will reportedly only pay £200,000 in compensation for the player. The teenager could, though, stay at his current club until the end of the season to gain more experience.

Rangers may have missed out on Smith, but they are said to be close to sealing a new contract with one of their own youngsters.  Nathan Patterson has also been linked with Liverpool but the 18-year-old is set to sign a new two and a half year contract at Ibrox.