Chelsea’s hopes of signing Bradley Barcola this summer may be indirectly boosted by the situation surrounding Rio Ngumoha at Liverpool, according to reports. The Blues have long been linked with Barcola, but competition for his signature is expected to be fierce.
Ngumoha departed Chelsea’s academy in 2024 at the age of 16, reportedly due to concerns over a clear pathway to the first team, a situation reminiscent of Jamal Musiala’s move to Bayern Munich. He has since become a regular feature for Liverpool, making 29 first-team appearances last season and contributing three goal involvements. His progress has seen his Estimated Transfer Value (ETV) rise to €29.8 million.
Bayern Munich are reportedly interested in Ngumoha, with David Ornstein of The Athletic confirming the Bundesliga side have initiated contact with the player’s representatives. However, Liverpool are keen to retain Ngumoha, viewing him as a key player for the future and are expected to offer him a prominent role under new manager Andoni Iraola.
Should Liverpool successfully convince Ngumoha to stay and fulfill a larger role within the squad, they may reconsider their plans to sign a new left winger before the 2026-27 season. This shift in strategy could open the door for Chelsea to finally secure Barcola, who was previously linked with a move to Stamford Bridge before joining Paris Saint-Germain in 2023.
Barcola is reportedly open to leaving PSG after falling down the pecking order under Luis Enrique, and Chelsea are considering him as an alternative to Morgan Rogers. Valued at €100 million by the French champions, Barcola recorded 20 goal contributions in 49 games last season. Chelsea’s attacking options have seen mixed results in their first seasons, with Jamie Gittens and Alejandro Garnacho both struggling for consistency, making Barcola a potentially pivotal signing under Xabi Alonso.
