Arsenal’s reported interest in Rio Ngumoha has suffered a setback with the Liverpool winger now expected to remain at Anfield.
The Gunners have been monitoring the 18-year-old as Andrea Berta continues to identify elite young talent who could strengthen Mikel Arteta’s squad.
However, the latest development makes a move increasingly difficult.
According to Football Insider, Ngumoha is happy at Liverpool and is not expected to push for a move to Arsenal.
The report adds that Liverpool believe the winger will receive regular starting opportunities and are working towards securing his long-term future.
Liverpool step up Ngumoha contract talks
Liverpool have already accelerated negotiations with Ngumoha’s representatives in an attempt to protect one of their brightest young players.
That changes the picture since Arsenal were first linked.
As we previously reported in our breakdown of Arsenal’s interest in Ngumoha, the potential opportunity centred on whether increased competition at Anfield could restrict his first-team minutes.
That concern currently appears to be easing.
Ngumoha has continued to feature under Andoni Iraola and was also named in Thomas Tuchel’s latest England squad.
Liverpool confirmed his senior international call-up last week.
Arsenal may need to look elsewhere
Arsenal’s interest has only been reported as monitoring rather than active negotiations.
That means there is little reason for Berta to force the situation if Ngumoha commits his future to Liverpool.
The Gunners have deliberately kept their recruitment options open ahead of January, with David Ornstein explaining Arsenal’s patient transfer strategy.
Ngumoha remains a player worth monitoring.
For now, though, Liverpool appear increasingly confident of keeping him.
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