Liverpool handed huge boost as Chelsea transfer ban wrecks Rio Ngumoha 'revenge' mission

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Liverpool Echo IconSportFootballLiverpool FCLiverpool signed talented forward Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea in 2024, and the teenager has been impressive at times in Arne Slot's first team this seasonLiverpool have been handed a boost in keeping hold of Joshua Abe after Chelsea were slapped with a transfer ban on signing academy players. It comes after previous reports that the Blues were keeping an eye on Abe's progress.It has previously been reported that Chelsea's interest is seen as a 'revenge mission' following Rio Ngumoha's move in the opposite direction.

The winger, who was born in July 2010, has made 10 appearances for Liverpool's Under 18s so far this season, scoring eight goals and providing three assists.Although Abe has not made a first-team appearance yet, many in and around the academy believe he is one of the most exciting youngsters on Liverpool's books.He is yet to sign a scholarship contract with the Reds or Chelsea, as well as Arsenal and several other top clubs, keeping a keen interest in his situation. If Abe does stay put at Liverpool, he will hope to follow in Ngumoha's footsteps.The academy star scored off the bench on his Premier League debut against Newcastle United in August.

He has since made 12 appearances in total for the Reds' first team this season, including two in the Champions League."He's a player that can finish really well for his age," Slot said after Ngumoha scored in the win at Newcastle. But he is so confident."That's what I like, because the first ball he got he wasn’t afraid.