While all focus is on Leeds United building a squad capable of Premier League survival in the transfer market, the club are also busy improving Scott Gardner’s U21 side, too.
At senior level, Adam Underwood is busy working hard to bring in some top-tier signings that give Daniel Farke a fighting chance of remaining in England’s top division. But, Gardner’s side also need additions.
The retained list on May 17 confirmed that 10 young players would leave Leeds at the end of their deals, including the likes of Luca Thomas, Cian Coleman, Amari Miller and Harry Christy – regulars at U21 level.
Gardner needs reinforcements and according to the Yorkshire Evening Post, Leeds are set to bring in two key additions at U21 level. Two players from two of England’s biggest clubs, Liverpool and Man City.
Louis Enohoro-Marcus in action for Liverpool's U18 side.
Photo by Nick Taylor/Liverpool FC/Liverpool FC via Getty Images
Leeds set to sign Nigeria-born defender after Liverpool release
Like Leeds, Liverpool have also released a number of young players as most clubs do and that included Louis Enahoro-Marcus. The defender had spent his entire youth at Liverpool until this summer.
Born in Benin City in Nigeria, the 2006-born 18-year-old has clocked up 24 appearances for Liverpool’s U18 side but it was not enough to convince those at Anfield to hand him a new contract and remain.
Leeds though, are set to take advantage. Joe Donnohue writes on the YEP’s website that he is one of two teenage defenders to move to Elland Road this summer, after scoring against Leeds U18’s in September.
Scott Gardner will also get Man City defender this summer
The same report from Donnohue states that Leeds are not only adding Enahoro-Marcus to their U21 side this summer, but are also set to bring in Wales U17 international Jayden Lienou from Manchester City.
Manchester City gem Jayden Lienou.
Photo by ANP via Getty Images
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Interestingly, Lienou began his youth career with Liverpool before a move across Merseyside to Everton before ending up at Man City in March 2024. He has remained with City since, but is now set to move.
Lienou will provide Gardner with an option on the left of defence, just as the senior side bring in a left-back themselves in Gabriel Gudmundsson. Leeds finished in 17th, out of 26, in last season’s PL2.