Chelsea set to target Liverpool youngster in reported retaliation for Rio Ngumoha move
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Chelsea still have not let go of the way Liverpool signed Rio Ngumoha back in 2024.Ngumoha was unhappy at Chelsea, and the Reds moved quickly to bring him in just as he turned 16.The Blues reportedly retaliated by banning Liverpool scouts from their youth games, viewing the club’s move as underhanded.To be fair, Ngumoha’s development since then has given some weight to Chelsea’s actions. He is now seen as one of the brightest young talents in English football.But it seems Chelsea have been waiting for their moment to respond, and now they appear ready to make a move over a year later.Photo by Ryan Crockett/DeFodi Images/DeFodi via Getty ImagesThe Daily Mail are reporting that Chelsea are interested in signing Josh Abe, a top prospect from Liverpool’s academy.Arsenal and Chelsea eye up Liverpool talent Josh AbeAbe, only 15, has already made appearances for the U18s, and his performances have not gone unnoticed, as previously revealed by Rousing The Kop.Now, The Daily Mail reports that both Arsenal and Chelsea are interested in the midfielder, who still has not signed scholarship terms with Liverpool.Chelsea’s pursuit is being framed as a direct response to Ngumoha’s move to Liverpool the previous year.Arsenal could also have a strong pull, as Abe’s father is believed to be an Arsenal supporter, which might play a role in where he chooses to go.Abe is already viewed as one of the most exciting players in Liverpool’s academy setup.
According to ‘Secret Scout’, he is considered “the BEST winger in the country at this age.”While there has not been any suggestion that a move is imminent, interest around Abe is clearly building, putting more pressure on Liverpool to secure his future.Liverpool have to find a way to keep hold of Josh AbeAt 15 years old, Abe and Ngumoha were regarded as standout prospects – players who thrived in wide areas and enjoyed taking on defenders.If both stay on their current path under Arne Slot, it would not be surprising if they end up playing together for Liverpool one day.If Abe keeps performing well at youth level, senior opportunities will come – something the club have consistently shown over recent years.The club need to rely on that reputation now more than ever. If they let him leave now, especially to a direct rival, it would feel like more than just bad timing – it would feel like poor management.
Even if some decisions end up being out of their hands, Liverpool must do everything possible to keep Abe on Merseyside.