Premier League giants Liverpool have agreed a deal in principle to sign teenage defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austrian club Austria Vienna, following his standout performances at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup.

The Reds announced the deal on their official website on Monday evening, noting that the transfer remained subject to international clearance.

Ndukwe, who will turn 18 in March, is expected to link up with Liverpool's U21 side in the summer. 

However, he will continue his development with Austria Vienna’s reserve team until the end of the current campaign.

Highly rated in Austria, the young defender has been a regular for the club's youth teams and has also made nine matchday squad appearances for the senior side this season.

The centre-back further caught global attention at the 2025 FIFA U17 World Cup, where he played a key role for Austria as they finished runners-up at the tournament. 

Ndukwe featured in all but one of Austria’s matches, earning plaudits for his composure and defensive solidity.

Despite representing Austria at youth level, Ndukwe remains eligible to play international football for Nigeria and Russia. 

Born in Vienna, he qualifies for Nigeria through his father and Russia through his mother.

Liverpool will be hoping the highly promising defender continues his steady development and eventually pushes for a place in the club’s first team.

Adeyemi Adewale

Photo Credit: fk-austria.at