Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images
Photo by Naomi Baker/Getty Images
Rio Ngumoha made the decision to leave Chelsea two years ago in order to get more first team opportunities, however Liverpool’s transfer business could see him lose those chances pretty quickly.
It was a damning blow to the Chelsea academy process when Ngumoha, who was seen as the most promising talent knocking on the first team door, decided not to sign with the club on a professional contract.
He made the move to Anfield, and has made an instant impact as one of the most promising teenagers in the Premier League, even being handed his England debut.
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Rio Ngumoha set to lose out on opportunities that he left Chelsea for
However, Liverpool are keen on bringing in new wingers before the season gets underway. They have held an interest in Bradley Barcola who operates in the same position as Ngumoha off the left.
While this would be okay for a youngster to deal with, the Reds have now seen a bid rejected to sign Brighton winger Yankuba Minteh.
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This competition, alongside Cody Gakpo, Federico Chiesa and Florian Wirtz in the wide attacking areas is going to make regular opportunities very difficult for Ngumoha to achieve.
Liverpool fans have been won over by the teenager already, and manager last season Arne Slot was booed by his own fans when he subbed Ngumoha off against Chelsea.
Ngumoha exit has changed Chelsea’s approach to academy
Chelsea were gutted to lose Ngumoha to a direct rival, and have made efforts to secure the future of their new promising youngsters.
Ryan Kavuma-McQueen is one of those who they made sure they secured a permanent contract for, with him already showcasing his talents to Xabi Alonso during pre-season.
The youngster is currently on loan at Portsmouth, where it has not taken him long to make his mark on his new supporters.
Kavuma-McQueen scored his first senior goal just eight minutes into his first start at this level, and looks set to take this opportunity to send a message to the first team squad.