Liverpool are embroiled in a fresh Premier League transfer battle as they fight to retain one of their most promising academy prospects, with Chelsea launching what's being described as a 'revenge mission' for 15-year-old winger Joshua Abe.
The Rising Star Catching Premier League Attention
Joshua Abe, born in July 2010, has emerged as one of Liverpool's brightest young talents despite his tender age. The 15-year-old winger has already made five appearances for Liverpool's Under-18s this season, demonstrating his potential with two goals and two assists during those matches.
Abe's performances haven't gone unnoticed at international level either, with the dynamic attacker already representing England at Under-16 level. His rapid development was further highlighted when he earned a call-up to feature for Liverpool's Under-21s, an exceptional achievement for a player of his age.
Chelsea's 'Revenge Mission' Explained
The interest from Chelsea carries an extra layer of intrigue, with the Daily Mail reporting their pursuit is being viewed as a 'revenge mission'. This stems from Liverpool's acquisition of Rio Ngumoha from Chelsea's academy in 2024.
Ngumoha's switch to Anfield caused significant friction between the clubs, resulting in Chelsea banning Liverpool scouts from attending academy games at their Cobham training base. The 17-year-old has since made an immediate impact for Liverpool, scoring the winning goal on his Premier League debut against Newcastle United in August.
Liverpool manager Arne Slot praised Ngumoha after that match, stating: "He's so confident. That's what I like, because the first ball he got he wasn't afraid. He immediately took someone on. For him to score that goal is not completely a coincidence - because for his age he's an amazing finisher."
Arsenal Interest and Contract Situation
Complicating matters further for Liverpool is reported interest from Arsenal, with rumours suggesting Abe's father is a lifelong Arsenal supporter, potentially influencing any decision about the youngster's future.
The situation is made more urgent by Abe's current contract status. The talented teenager has yet to sign a scholarship contract with Liverpool, leaving the door open for rival clubs to poach the highly-rated prospect.
This type of academy poaching has become common practice in modern football, with several players in Liverpool's current youth teams having previously been developed at other clubs' academies.
High Praise and Growing Reputation
Abe's potential has attracted significant attention from football analysts, with popular online account Secret Scout, who boasts 253,000 followers, making a bold declaration about the Liverpool youngster.
"In my opinion, Abe is the BEST winger in the country at this age," the account stated, a significant compliment given the emergence of other talents like Arsenal's 15-year-old Max Dowman, who has already featured for the Gunners' first team.
With Ngumoha's successful transition to first-team football demonstrating the pathway available at Liverpool, the club will be desperate to retain Abe's services. However, the combined interest from London rivals Chelsea and Arsenal, coupled with the revenge narrative, sets the stage for a compelling transfer tussle over one of English football's most exciting young prospects.
