Liverpool confirm early Thursday transfer move as Rio Ngumoha uncertainty lingers

 

 

Liverpool have officially confirmed that James Norris has completed a permanent transfer to Irish side Shelbourne.

The move follows earlier reports regarding the futures of Norris, James McConnell and Owen Beck. The 22-year-old left-back has already made a strong impression under Joey O’Brien, featuring 11 times and logging 734 minutes, while also providing an assist during a Europa League qualifying match against HNK Rijeka.

Liverpool announced the deal on their official X account on Thursday morning, bringing an end to what has been a successful loan spell in Ireland. This development comes as both McConnell and Beck are expected to see their own loan deals cut short.

McConnell has struggled for regular minutes despite catching the eye of Arne Slot in European action earlier this season. Beck, meanwhile, has seen his progress disrupted by injury, most recently a hamstring problem that required surgery.

Rio Ngumoha’s situation is slightly different. While his game time has been affected by Liverpool’s poor domestic form in the 2025/26 season, there is also a strong case that the club should avoid placing too much responsibility on the teenager so early in his career.

As Arne Slot pointed out, Ngumoha has already played more minutes than any other 17-year-old in the Premier League, highlighting both his quality and how highly he is rated at Anfield. For that reason, it seems unlikely Liverpool would consider sending him out on loan to compensate for any perceived lack of minutes.

Ultimately, despite his immense potential, Ngumoha should not be expected to accumulate heavy senior involvement at this early stage of his Liverpool journey.