Liverpool youngster Rio Ngumoha is beginning to show all on Merseyside just how much potential he really has.
After coming through Chelsea’s academy in west London, Rio Ngumoha made the switch to Liverpool last summer.
In his debut season at Liverpool, 16-year-old Ngumoha featured regularly in the Premier League 2 with the club’s U21s, and he also racked up six appearances in the UEFA Youth League.
As a result, Arne Slot has clearly been keen to give Ngumoha a real opportunity with the first-team in pre-season, one he’s taken with both hands.
TBR Football confirmed last month that Luis Diaz’s departure could benefit Ngumoha in terms of opportunities under Slot, and that’s already coming to fruition.
Liverpool are preparing a new contract offer for Rio Ngumoha
That being said, Fabrizio Romano has now provided an update on Ngumoha’s contract situation on his YouTube channel.
Ngumoha has already scored two goals and provided two assists in pre-season, underlining his rich potential.
And Romano said that Liverpool really believe that they’ve got a ‘diamond’ on their hands.
He shared: “Liverpool believe this kid is special, Liverpool are preparing a new contract proposal for Rio, with maximum relaxation, there is no pressure.
Rio Ngumoha celebrates his goal for Liverpool against Athletic Club.
Photo by Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
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“But Liverpool want to show to this kid that they trust him, and this kid is showing Liverpool that he really trusts this project.
“He wanted Liverpool and now the feeling between them is fantastic. Liverpool really believe that they have a diamond in their squad.
“13 months ago when I broke this story, the message I got from those at Liverpool was to remember this name, because the transfer window was quiet, the last one.
“But someone at Liverpool told me, Rio Ngumoha is going to be an important signing and you will see.”
Liverpool can cope without buying a Luis Diaz replacement
Given that Diaz has departed for Bayern Munich as mentioned, Liverpool fans may logically expect a replacement.
However, with Ngumoha on the rise and Cody Gakpo ready to be Liverpool’s starter on the left, perhaps that is a situation that can wait until January or beyond.
No one will want to put too much pressure on Ngumoha, he’s only 16 after all, but he does seem ready in terms of his ability to contribute occasionally across the season.
Moreover, Hugo Ekitike might be able to contribute from a wide role on the left too, especially if Liverpool can sign Alexander Isak from Newcastle.
Ekitike is more effective in a central role, but the Frenchman has already shown his ability to run the channels when assisting Mohamed Salah against Athletic Club.
In an ideal world, Liverpool would recruit a left winger, but Slot is still relatively well set if they don’t.