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According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Liverpool are closing in on a deal to sign Chelsea youngster Rio Ngumoha. The Reds are reportedly ready to break their academy wage structure to bring in the highly touted 15-year-old.
Arne Slot is set to begin a new era at Anfield. While bolstering his squad is a goal for Slot, he's keeping an eye on the future as well, and Ngumoha could very well be a part of that plan.
The 15-year-old, who has dual citizenship of England and Nigeria, has played for Chelsea's under-21 side and is a regular in their under-18 side.
The Blues, meanwhile, have spent a lot of money in gathering the best youngsters across the globe. However, Ngumoha is reportedly very attracted to Liverpool's project and the Anfield club's handling of youngsters.
The Reds notably put out a second-string team full of young players in the Carabao Cup final against the Blues last season, winning 1-0 in extra time.
The Stamford Bridge club, meanwhile, are reportedly furious about the prospect of potentially losing Ngumoha. As per sources, Ngumoha is touted as one of the best young players in his age group at the moment.
The Anfield club have stepped up their interest in signing top young talents since Brexit rules changed the trading of youngsters in Britain. Ben Doak is one of their best young acquisitions in recent years.
The Daily Mail reported that Ngumoha could move to Merseyside on a scholar contract. However, as per Express, the Reds are ready to break their academy wage structure.
Fabrizio Romano provides update on Liverpool's interest in Chelsea's Rio Ngumoha
Rio Ngumoha plays as a left-winger and could be an asset for big teams in the near future. Hence, several top English clubs are reportedly pursuing the 15-year-old.
Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the Reds are closing in on completing a deal for the prodigy. He reported (via GiveMeSport):
"Liverpool are closing in on deal to sign Rio Ngumoha (2008) as he's leaving Chelsea academy. #LFC are set to break historical wage structure for Academy to sign Rio, who's highly rated by the club. Deal set to be completed soon."
Talented wingers have become a rare commodity in modern football. Getting their hands on a highly touted prospect like Ngumoha at a tender age could turn out to be a masterstroke for the Merseysiders.
