Liverpool Seals Deal with Austria’s Teenage Defensive Monster
2 January 2026
Transfer details
In a striking development in the transfer market, Liverpool has sealed its first winter signing.
Fabrizio Romano, trusted for transfer news, reported that Liverpool has agreed to sign 17-year-old Austrian centre-back Ivani Ndukwe for summer 2026.
The deal is set to take effect from July, and Austria Vienna has reportedly accepted the bid.
About the player
Ndukwe, a towering 196 cm defender, is widely regarded as one of Europe’s brightest defensive prospects.
The teenage Austrian international featured for his country at the Under-17 World Cup, helping Austria reach the final before losing to Portugal.
Liverpool are expected to integrate him with the Under-21s initially, with a potential path to the first team as his development continues on the current trajectory.
And for a touch of humor to close, if Ndukwe grows into the monster everyone talks about, Klopp might finally need a taller dugout. If his wall-like presence sticks, the Crossbar Committee may need to file for a taller stadium as well.
