Liverpool broke club rule for Rio Ngumoha, 16, as rival left powerless
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Liverpool went the extra mile to sign Rio Ngumoha - and it's easy to see why.
The 16-year-old prodigy made his mark on the global stage by netting a spectacular last-gasp winner during his Premier League bow against Newcastle on Monday – becoming Liverpool's youngest ever scorer in the process.
Ngumoha, who celebrates his 17th birthday on Friday, was previously the prized asset of Chelsea's academy.
However, he ultimately slipped away from the West London outfit due to some shrewd negotiations from Liverpool.
The Reds typically adhere to a rigid salary framework for academy players, yet they made an unusual exception in 2024 to entice Ngumoha to Merseyside.
Whilst the youngster is technically on a standard scholar's contract, valued at £1,200 ($1,617) monthly, the deal includes a series of performance-related bonuses that can significantly boost his earnings.
Such financial incentives are seldom provided at youth level, according to ESPN, highlighting both Liverpool's exceptional regard for Ngumoha and the lengths they were prepared to go to prevent Chelsea from retaining his services.
Ngumoha, a London native, initially entered Chelsea's youth program in 2016 and was extensively considered a prospective senior squad member.
Ngumoha became Liverpool's youngest ever goalscorer on Monday.
Chelsea made a valiant effort to retain their coveted young talent, but Liverpool's ambitious offer ultimately won the day.
If the Swedish forward joins, it will likely push Ngumoha down the attacking pecking order – especially with summer signing Hugo Ekitike already hitting top form and unlikely to be benched.
A clear route to senior football was a key factor in Ngumoha's decision to leave Chelsea, so Liverpool will need to balance their long-term goals with his immediate development.
While it might be premature for him to insist on regular playing time, as Wayne Rooney - who, like Ngumoha, scored a stunning debut goal at the tender age of 16 - demonstrated: when you're ready, you're ready.