Liverpool ordered to pay £2.8m for teenage forward Rio Ngumoha

Liverpool have been told to pay £2.8 million for highly rated teenager Rio Ngumoha following his move from Chelsea, with the total fee potentially rising to £6.8m after a tribunal ruling.

A Professional Football Compensation Committee has determined the non negotiable figure after the forward joined Liverpool’s academy in 2024 at the age of 16. The ruling settles the compensation owed to Chelsea for Ngumoha’s development.

The decision includes an initial £2.8m payment, with a further £4m in performance related add ons. Chelsea will also be entitled to 20 percent of any future profit should Liverpool sell the player.

The ruling brings clarity to a transfer that has already paid early dividends for the Reds. Ngumoha has made a rapid impact since arriving on Merseyside, progressing quickly from academy football into Arne Slot’s first team plans.

The England Under 19 international has already made 14 senior appearances for Liverpool and etched his name into the club’s history by becoming their youngest ever goalscorer. His dramatic 100th minute winner against Newcastle in the Premier League announced his arrival on the biggest stage.

That breakthrough moment came in front of a charged Anfield crowd, with Liverpool pushing relentlessly late on. Ngumoha’s sharp movement and composure in the box proved decisive as the home side searched for a winner.

Slot has been careful with the winger’s minutes but has made no attempt to hide his admiration. The Liverpool head coach has highlighted Ngumoha’s one v one ability, explosive change of direction, and maturity well beyond his years, while also pointing to squad balance as a factor in his selection decisions.

Despite his age, Ngumoha has looked comfortable in high pressure moments. His goal against Newcastle was the result of intelligent positioning at the back post and a ruthless finish, underlining the qualities that convinced Liverpool to invest heavily in his future.

The second half of his debut season has seen Liverpool manage his workload, rotating him in and out of the side as fixtures pile up. Even so, his influence has continued to grow whenever he has been introduced, often injecting pace and directness into tight matches.

Liverpool now turn their attention to a major test against Manchester City this weekend, a fixture that could shape the title race. Ngumoha will be hoping to play his part once again, as his remarkable rise continues and Liverpool’s long term investment begins to look increasingly justified.