Liverpool have completed the signing of highly rated Chelsea teenager Rio Ngumoha after the Premier League approved the move.
Ngumoha’s move to Anfield had been a couple months in the making after it was revealed in July that the 16-year-old had decided to leave the Blues with Liverpool his chosen destination.
The England youth international has agreed a scholar’s contract with the Reds and he will start off in the club’s under-18 side.
Liverpool complete Ngumoha signing
Ngumoha is regarded as a top talent and featured for Chelsea’s under-21 side as a 15-year old , whilst he was also named as player of the tournament when the Chelsea under-16 side won the national title last year.
The Athletic have reported that the pathway available to young players at Liverpool is thought to have been a major factor in Ngumoha’s decision to join the club.
The report also adds that Liverpool feel the signing is a major coup for them given the teenager’s potential and talent.
🔴🏴 Liverpool are convinced they have signed a top, super talent for the future with Rio Ngumoha.
Impressive proposal was made to reach the agreement after Rio left Chelsea academy.
Liverpool see Rio as big talent for present and future, part of first team long term project. pic.twitter.com/NDA5XZX6LL
— Fabrizio Romano (@FabrizioRomano) September 5, 2024
Liverpool will owe Chelsea a compensation fee for the youngster but The Athletic state the amount is likely to decided at a tribunal.
Chelsea legend John Terry wished Ngumoha good luck after he shared a photo of him holding up a Liverpool shirt to his Instagram.
Ngumoha could make his Liverpool debut against Blackburn after the international break and he will no doubt be looking to make a good first impression.
This move is the latest in a number of high profile academy transfers this summer and it feels like it’s something clubs are doing on a more frequent basis than before.
The Blues will likely be disappointed to lose a top talent from the academy, but Cobham has a reputation as one of the best academies in football, and the club have shown even if you don’t get a chance in the first team you will likely still have a very good career.
