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Manchester United reportedly tried to sign wonderkid Rio Ngumoha during the summer transfer window but they elected against pursuing him any further, leaving bitter rivals Liverpool with a clear pathway to sign him.
Sir Jim Ratcliffe’s completion of a 27.7% partial investment into United has since seen the club pivot towards a transfer policy of signing youngsters who can be moulded and nurtured to potentially become world-class players.
Indeed, the Red Devils have recently brought in the likes of Sekou Kone, James Overy, Silva Mexes and Samuel Lusale to bolster the youth academy ranks.
United are also believed to be in the process of finalising a deal to land highly-rated goalscoring sensation Chido Obi-Martin, with the club awaiting Premier League approval.
Ngumoha is considered to be one of the most exciting youngsters in the country, having been crowned player of the tournament when Chelsea’s U16s became national champions last October.
The 16-year-old winger made an appearance for the Blues U21s and was seen as one of their most promising starlets.
It’s believed that Chelsea did everything possible to try and convince Ngumoha to stay but their efforts failed to bear any fruit as he remained in favour of joining Liverpool’s youth set-up.
According to The Athletic, United made an attempt to add Ngumoha to their ranks once it became clear he was set to part ways with Chelsea.
The newspaper notes that the Red Devils even held talks with Ngumoha but Liverpool’s deal was far too advanced.
“In June, Ngumoha spent time at Manchester United listening to plans they had for him if he decided on a move.”
“United pushed for his signature but felt they were already behind Liverpool in the race and eventually conceded defeat.”
Ngumoha has already made three appearances for Liverpool’s U18s.
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