Liverpool Signs Rio Ngumoha to First Professional Contract with Record Pay Rise

Liverpool's teenage winger Rio Ngumoha has committed his future to the club by signing his first professional contract, tying him to Liverpool until 2028. The 17-year-old, who joined from Chelsea last summer, has impressed manager Arne Slot by scoring a dramatic late winner on his Premier League debut and becoming Liverpool's youngest goalscorer, as well as their youngest player in European competition. Ngumoha's contract is reportedly worth around £52,000 per year initially, with potential to earn more through bonuses, reflecting Liverpool's policy of motivating young players through opportunity rather than salary. Despite interest from clubs like Real Madrid, Liverpool have secured Ngumoha's services, seeing him as a key future player who provides competition on the left wing alongside stars like Cody Gakpo and Mohamed Salah. The club has managed his rapid rise carefully, with expectations kept balanced while allowing him to grow into a first-team role. Liverpool's faith in Ngumoha is underscored by his quick progression from youth squads to regular senior appearances in top competitions.