On January 2nd, Kurier reported Liverpool have managed to get ahead of strong competition to sign Ifeanyi Ndukwe. He will turn 18 years of age in March, and the Reds plan to leave him at FK Austria Wien until the end of this season.
Last week, Austria U18 manager Hermann Stadler shared his mixed emotions over the defender’s move to Anfield.
On Monday, Liverpool announced an agreement in principle with Austria Wien to sign Ndukwe. Arne Slot’s side also confirmed 17-year-old will initially work with their U21s upon his arrival.
The centre-back expressed his happiness with this operation, as Sky Austria reported he will sign a contract until 2031 at Anfield.
Austria Wien sporting director Michael Wagner has shared his feelings on the deal agreed with Liverpool. He’s been speaking to their official website of the transfer agreement.
The Austria U17 international is a product of the club’s youth system. Their official site says he has played seven matches in the second division this season.
Ndukwe impressed at the U17 World Cup in November, where Austria lost the final to Portugal. His performances caught the attention of several European clubs.
Liverpool agreement a win for everyone
Liverpool
“It’s a great honour that one of the world’s best football clubs is showing interest in one of our homegrown talents,” Wagner said.
“The agreement with Liverpool is structured in such a way that Austria Vienna comes out ahead in every scenario. Regardless of whether the option is exercised or not.”
“For me, this is a clear win-win situation for both clubs. Above all, this story is a great testament to the outstanding work that is done in our academy.”
“We have several players here with enormous potential, which we want to develop even more effectively in the future. Thus serving as a springboard for great talents to reach Europe’s top leagues. Austria Vienna is the right club for that.
“Our primary goal is for our talents to first establish themselves in the first team and thus recommend themselves for higher levels. In this case, the overall package, both the offer from Liverpool to Austria and the prospect for Ifeanyi Ndukwe, was an ideal fit for all parties involved.”