‘Discussions ongoing’ – Romano drops morning update as Liverpool work towards contract renewal

Fabrizio Romano reported that Liverpool plans to advance talks with Rio Ngumoha for a new long-term contract. The talented winger, who turns 17 next month, joined Liverpool from Chelsea last year after completing the Premier League's registration process.

Internally, Liverpool consider Ngumoha "one of the best around for his age" with "high hopes for him," a view echoed by John Terry who called him a future "top, top player." He has already trained with the first team and made his senior debut at 16, playing 72 minutes in an FA Cup match against Accrington Stanley in January.

Ngumoha may feature in pre-season friendlies, starting with the match against Preston, but will likely continue his development with the under-21s. Liverpool's urgency to secure his long-term future reflects their high regard for him and desire to prevent him being tempted by other clubs.