Liverpool are planning a big future at centre-back after moving to the verge of signing Austrian talent Ifeanyi Ndukwe last week.
The Reds have been desperately short in defence this season, and while fans would love to see a senior arrival this January, Liverpool look to be focusing on setting themselves up for years to come.
Ndukwe is set to arrive for around £2.6m and although he will initially join the Liverpool academy, he is clearly being eyed for a future spot in the first-team.
How excited are you by Liverpool’s move for Ifeanyi Ndukwe? 😃
The 17-year-old is a HUGE prospect
- DOB: 03/03/2008
- Position: Centre-Back
- Favoured foot: Right/both
- Height: 1.98m
Interestingly, the Reds do not look like they’ve finished recruiting for the U21s next season.
As well as Ndukwe, Liverpool are reportedly now on the verge of signing another player who impressed at the U17 World Cup this winter: Senegal’s Talla Ndiaye.
Liverpool to sign Talla Ndiaye in the coming days
One of the issues regarding Liverpool’s worries at centre-back this season has been the lack of potential cover in the academy.
After news of Ndukwe’s imminent arrival broke, it looks likely that neither Amara Nallo nor Wellity Lucky have a long-term future at Liverpool. They haven’t been trusted to step up in a time of real need.
READ MORE: Gary Neville predicts Liverpool’s chances of a top-four finish after late Fulham collapse
Clearly, Liverpool have taken this as a sign to bolster their ranks, and according to Senegalese journalist Saikou Seydi, they will wrap up the signing of Ndiaye in the next few days.
“The young defender for Amitie FC (who came through Bou Sports Academy), El Hadj Mor Ndiaye, is expected to sign with Liverpool in the coming days,” Seydi posted on X.
“Mor Ndiaye played in the U17 World Cup in Qatar with Senegal.”
Who are you picking as Virgil van Dijk’s centre-back partner next season?
Ndiaye stood out at the U17 World Cup
Liverpool scouts reportedly zoned in on Ndukwe after watching him at the recent U17 World Cup in Qatar.
The Austrian was named as one of the two centre-backs in the official team of the tournament and cemented his reputation as a budding talent.
Interestingly, Ndiaye was also picked as one of the outstanding players on that world stage, eventually being selected among the substitutes.
Senegal did not make it past the round of 32, but the left-footed defender stood out to the extent that he was recognised as one of the best 14 players in the competition.
It will not lessen the desire to bring in a new, senior defender this winter, but Liverpool supporters can at least look ahead to a bright future for their back line.
Receive a digest of our best Liverpool content each week direct to your mailbox
