Liverpool have been ordered to pay Chelsea an initial £2.8 million (approximately N5.2 billion in Nigerian currency) in compensation for the signing of teenage forward Rio Ngumoha, with the total fee potentially rising to £6.8 million following a ruling by a Professional Football Compensation Committee (PFCC) tribunal, according to The Athletic.

Ngumoha, who spent eight years in Chelsea’s academy, joined Liverpool in the summer of 2024 after opting to leave Stamford Bridge. 

His departure sparked a dispute between the two Premier League clubs, with Chelsea unhappy over the circumstances surrounding his exit.

Under Premier League regulations, clubs are entitled to compensation for the training and development of young players who move on before signing a professional contract.

The amount is determined by an independent tribunal when an agreement cannot be reached.

The Professional Football Compensation Committee has ruled that Liverpool must pay Chelsea a guaranteed £2.8 million, with a further £4 million in add-ons linked to senior appearances, contract milestones, and potential national honours with England. 

Chelsea will also be entitled to 20 percent of any future profit should Liverpool sell the player.

Ngumoha has enjoyed an impressive breakthrough season at Anfield. The 17-year-old caught the eye during pre-season, scoring three goals and earning the confidence of new head coach Arne Slot. 

He has since carried that form into the competitive campaign, netting his first senior goal in Liverpool’s 3-2 victory over Newcastle United at St James’ Park.

So far this season, Ngumoha has made 13 appearances across all competitions, accumulating 349 minutes of first-team football.

Born in England, Ngumoha remains eligible to represent Nigeria’s Super Eagles, having not yet made a senior appearance for the England national team.

Adeyemi Adewale