Liverpool are eager to avoid blocking Rio Ngumoha‘s pathway as they look to strengthen their attack further, with the youngster seen as a first-team player.
Ngumoha has been the breakout success of Liverpool’s pre-season having scored in warmup friendlies against Stoke, Yokohama F. Marinos and Athletic Club.
The 16-year-old also teed up Darwin Nunez for his goal against the latter, having established himself as a go-to option on the left flank.
While it is often the case that young talent will be used throughout pre-season before resuming duties in the academy ranks, This Is Anfield understands Ngumoha is considered a genuine first-team contender heading into the new campaign.
Liverpool are exploring the market for an additional attacking signing after agreeing the £46 million sale of Darwin Nunez, but opportunities for their No. 73 – who is set to sign a new contract when he turns 17 next month – will also be a priority.
The same can be applied to Trey Nyoni, who has quietly impressed in a variety of midfield roles, as well as at centre-back in the 4-1 win over Athletic Club at Anfield.
Nyoni’s poise, technical quality and tactical flexibility helped in the decision to sanction Tyler Morton‘s £15 million move to Lyon earlier this week.
It stands to reason that neither Ngumoha or Nyoni will head into the new season as first-choice starters but there is a sense that they could be afforded enough game time as the months go by.
They are likely to also feature for Rob Page’s U21s at times while both remain eligible the U19s, who will take part in the UEFA Youth League again this season.
Ngumoha can provide competition for Cody Gakpo on the left wing, while Arne Slot also has Hugo Ekitike and Florian Wirtz capable of operating in that role if required.
But the decision to sell Luis Diaz to Bayern Munich without pursuing a direct replacement helps demonstrate the faith in Ngumoha to step up to the senior squad on a full-time basis.
Liverpool’s next arrival in the forward line is expected to be a central striker, having already seen a £110 million bid for Alexander Isak fall short of Newcastle‘s valuation.
Newcastle, who have exiled Isak from first-team activities, are looking to replace the Swede before sanctioning his exit, though their efforts have failed so far with Liam Delap, Joao Pedro and Benjamin Sesko all opting for moves elsewhere.