Liverpool F.C. have floated the idea of converting 17‑year‑old Rio Ngumoha into a right‑wing option to fill the void left by Mohamed Salah’s summer exit, according to Liverpool Echo journalist Paul Gorst. The club sit 5th in the Premier League with 60 points, 17W‑9D‑12L, and a goal difference of +10 after scoring 63 and conceding 53 this season, still 25 points behind leaders Arsenal.

Can Ngumoha realistically replace Salah?

Ngumoha burst onto the scene with a dazzling left‑wing season, catching the eye of head coach Andoni Iraola. His England debut on the right wing against New Zealand last month shows versatility. Switching him to the opposite flank could give Iraola a home‑grown solution without splashing cash on a marquee signing, especially as the reported pursuit of Bradley Barcola continues.

Why is the right‑wing spot critical for Liverpool?

Since Salah’s departure, Liverpool have only one senior right‑sided winger, Federico Chiesa, whose future looks uncertain. The Reds need a reliable outlet on the right to maintain width and threat in the final third. Ngumoha’s brief cameo as a late substitute against Nottingham Forest in February proved he can adapt, and pre‑season matches will be the perfect testing ground without the pressure of league points.

What could this mean for Liverpool’s transfer budget?

If Iraola opts to develop Ngumoha on the right, Liverpool could avoid a £30‑plus‑million outlay for a new winger. The club’s current financial strategy appears focused on nurturing talent while staying within the constraints of a 60‑point season that still leaves them 25 points adrift of Arsenal. A successful internal promotion would free resources for other areas, perhaps bolstering the defence that has let in 53 goals.

How soon might we see Ngumoha on the right?

Pre‑season friendlies this summer will likely feature Ngumoha in a right‑wing role, giving Iraola a clear picture before the transfer window closes. Should he impress, the teenager could become a regular starter early next campaign, offering Liverpool a long‑term answer to the Salah conundrum and a fresh spark for a side aiming to climb back into the top four.