This is your Liverpool FC news update for Tuesday, 9 July with reports on Rio Ngumoha, John Heitinga, Karim Adeyemi and more.

Thiago tipped for Barca

It is now being reported that following news of Thiago’s retirement, contact has been established between Barcelona and their former La Masia graduate in an attempt to bring him on board as a member of Hansi Flick’s coaching staff.

Liverpool close in on Chelsea forward

Liverpool are closing in on the signing of Chelsea wonderkid Rio Ngumoha and will break their academy wage structure to complete a deal, according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano.

The Reds are yet to make any signings for the first team but are seemingly about to strengthen their academy with a deal to sign talented 15-year-old Ngumoha.

The teenager, who was born in 2008, has represented England at youth level and has risen through the ranks at Chelsea.

– Chelsea U21, U 21 v Colchester United U21, Premier League Cup, Group Stage, Group D, Kingsmeadow Stadium, Kingston upon Thames, UK – 22nd January 2024. Rio Ngumoha of Chelsea U21. – Chelsea U21 v Colchester United U21, Premier League Cup, Group Stage, Group D, Kingsmeadow Stadium, Kingston upon Thames, UK – 22nd January 2024. Kingston upon Thames Kingsmeadow Stadium UK Copyright: xDanxWeirx CP_Chelsea_U21_Colchester_U21_58

Traditionally a left-winger, the teenager can also play on the opposite flank and as an attacking midfielder. He made nine appearances for Chelsea’s under-18 side last term, providing two goal contributions.

According to Romano on X (formerly Twitter), the youngster is leaving the Blues’ academy and is closing in on a move to Merseyside.

The deal is ‘set to be completed soon’ and Liverpool will break their ‘historical wage structure’ for the academy to make the move happen. As per This Is Anfield, the maximum wage for youth players is £50,000 per year at the club.