Leeds United set to sign teenage left-back from Ikorodu City

EFL Championship side, Leeds United, are set to sign Nigerian teenage sensation, Leonard Ngenge, from Ikorodu City FC, Soccernet.ng reports. 

Ikorodu City FC will be playing their first-ever Nigeria Professional League game against Kano Pillars on Saturday after they gained promotion from the NNL last season.

As per 72co, Leeds United are plotting a move to sign the Nigerian youngster, Leonard Ngenge. Daniel Farke’s side are confident of securing an agreement with Ikorodu City for the transfer of the 16-year-old left-back.

However, the young defender will not be allowed to officially join the EFL Championship club until he turns 18, owing to FIFA regulations.

The player has been on trial with Leeds during the last few weeks and the Whites are confident of getting a deal over the line as both parties have mutual interest.

Ngenge could end up being a quality long-term acquisition for the Yorkshire giants, who are well known for nurturing talented young players into established stars, and they could help the youngster fulfil tremendous potential in the coming seasons, should an agreement be reached.

Swedish side, Hammarby IF Fotbollförening, are also admirers of Ngenge, but it appears the Whites are best placed to bring him through the door when he’s allowed to move.

Unlike the majority of English clubs, Leeds are not a powerhouse in the transfer market. Their only option of staying afloat financially is buying youngsters, building them, and selling them for profit.

James Milner, Kalvin Phillips, Fabian Delph, Crycencio Summerville, and Archie Gray are famous names that have grown into mature stars at Elland Road.