Liverpool transfer news: Rio Ngumoha has given Liverpool another reason to feel positive about his future at Anfield despite reported interest from Arsenal. The 18-year-old has spoken positively about working with Andoni Iraola, while recent reports claim the Premier League champions are monitoring his situation.
According to talkSPORT, Ngumoha has enjoyed working with Iraola and believes playing on both flanks has added another dimension to his game. He said the Liverpool manager and his coaching staff have helped him, while the chance to operate from either side has given him “another tool” against defenders.
That is important because Arsenal’s reported interest centres on his potential availability if he cannot secure a regular starting role. Reports have suggested the Gunners could consider an approach in 2027, although Liverpool have shown no desire to sell him.
Ngumoha joined Liverpool from Chelsea in 2024, with a tribunal later setting the initial compensation at £2.8m, potentially rising through add-ons. He then became Liverpool’s youngest goalscorer after scoring against Newcastle in August 2025.
His development continued last season, when he made 29 appearances and scored twice before earning senior England recognition. Ngumoha has since remained involved under Iraola and started against Atletico Madrid in the Champions League.
Liverpool transfer news: Should Liverpool keep Rio Ngumoha rather than consider a loan?
Liverpool should keep Ngumoha within Iraola’s first-team group because his current situation offers something a temporary move cannot easily reproduce, and those are daily exposure to elite teammates, demanding tactical instructions and Premier League-level training.
There are obvious gaps in his game. He has yet to produce a goal or assist this season, while his defensive work and decision-making still need improvement. However, those weaknesses should encourage more coaching rather than a quick exit.
Iraola’s decision to use him on both wings makes particular sense. Ngumoha has built his reputation primarily from the left, yet learning the right side forces him to recognise different spaces, defensive movements and passing options. That extra education could prove valuable as Liverpool reshape their wide positions.
His dribbling remains the clearest weapon. Against Atletico, Ngumoha repeatedly carried the ball and created problems from wide areas, including the run that helped Liverpool turn the match around. UEFA records his Champions League outing at 60 minutes, with two attempts and a 78% passing rate.
A January loan would therefore interrupt a useful learning period. Liverpool can control his minutes, manage his physical load and correct his defensive habits while keeping him close to the senior squad.
There is another issue. Arsenal’s interest appears genuine, while Liverpool are reportedly working on a new contract for Ngumoha. David Ornstein has confirmed Arsenal’s interest, but reports say Liverpool want to retain the winger rather than entertain a sale.
For Liverpool, the sensible route is to keep giving Ngumoha meaningful opportunities. He doesn’t need every match. He needs enough responsibility to keep developing and enough trust to stay committed.
That matters even more after his latest comments about Iraola. He clearly feels that the coaching staff are adding new elements to his game, and Liverpool transfer news around Ngumoha will keep growing as Arsenal continue to watch.
