Liverpool’s impending signing of 15-year-old winger Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea has reportedly left the London club “furious.” Ngumoha is set to join Liverpool’s esteemed academy ranks and will sign scholarship terms when he turns 16 later this month. While initial claims that Liverpool would break their youth wage structure for Ngumoha have been refuted, the young winger is expected to arrive at the AXA Training Centre soon.
Reports suggest that Ngumoha is attracted to Liverpool due to the promising pathway and opportunities available at the club, with their recent triumph in the Carabao Cup serving as an example. This decision by Ngumoha, although not formally announced by Liverpool due to his age, has reportedly angered those at Chelsea.
Chelsea’s frustration may be further compounded by their recent signings, which have potentially blocked Ngumoha’s pathway to the first team. The club has secured deals for Brazilian winger Estevao and Ecuadorian attacking midfielder Kendry Paez at a combined cost of £68.3 million. Additionally, they have brought in Omari Kellyman and Marc Guiu, both 18, as well as 19-year-olds Deivid Washington, Angelo, and Diego Moreira, who are all vying for a place on the wing.
It is understandable that Ngumoha sees Liverpool as a more viable option for his development and first-team opportunities. Despite the change in manager at Anfield with the arrival of Arne Slot as head coach, Liverpool’s commitment to youth is expected to remain steadfast.
Liverpool’s focus on nurturing young talent is evident in their involvement of players like Trey Nyoni, Amara Nallo, and Kieran Morrison, all 17 years old, in the early stages of pre-season.
While Liverpool had hoped to secure the signing of attacking midfielder Ryan McAidoo from Chelsea this summer, the player is now set to join Manchester City instead. However, a deal is in place to bring in Wolves defender Alvin Ayman, a 16-year-old who can also play in defense. Ayman is likely to join Ngumoha in Liverpool’s U18s squad for the upcoming season.
Liverpool is expected to announce their next scholarship intake soon, with Prince Kobe Cisse, the son of former player Djibril Cisse, reportedly among those offered terms. However, the club has seen the departure of Zac Jagielka, son of former Everton defender Phil Jagielka, who has joined Hull City.
Overall, Liverpool’s acquisition of Ngumoha from Chelsea highlights their commitment to nurturing young talent and providing promising players with a clear pathway to the first team. While Chelsea’s recent signings may have obstructed Ngumoha’s chances of breaking through, Liverpool’s reputation for developing young players makes them an attractive destination for ambitious prospects.