Liverpool youngster Ifeanyi Ndukwe is reportedly on the verge of joining Levante on a season-long loan, with the defender expected to travel to Spain shortly to complete his medical and the remaining transfer formalities.
The 18-year-old only officially arrived at Liverpool this summer following an agreement with Austria Wien, but work permit restrictions mean he cannot currently play competitive football for the Reds.
A move to La Liga now offers Ndukwe an opportunity to continue his development at senior level before returning to Anfield in 2027.
Ifeanyi Ndukwe closing in on Levante loan
According to Sky Sport Austria, Ndukwe has chosen Levante after attracting interest from several clubs across Europe.
The Austria Under-19 international is expected to travel to Spain in the coming days for medical examinations and to complete the necessary paperwork before his loan becomes official.
Journalist Eric Niederseer also reports that the transfer is close, with Ndukwe expected to make the journey "soon".
Levante faced competition for his signature. Danish side Randers FC had shown interest, while unnamed clubs from both La Liga and Portugal were also considering the Liverpool defender.
Ndukwe has ultimately opted for Levante, although the reports do not specify why the Spanish club emerged as his preferred destination.
Work permit prevents immediate Liverpool role
Liverpool originally reached an agreement with Austria Wien earlier this year, but post-Brexit regulations prevented Ndukwe from moving to England in January because he did not turn 18 until March.
He eventually arrived at Anfield in July and was given opportunities by Andoni Iraola during pre-season.
Despite that involvement, Ndukwe does not currently have the necessary work permit to represent Liverpool competitively in the UK.
A loan outside Britain therefore became the logical solution, with his agent Georg Lederer confirming last week that discussions were taking place with several clubs.
Levante are now set to provide the next stage of his development.
Liverpool retain long-term plans for Ndukwe
Importantly, Liverpool have reportedly refused to include a purchase option in the agreement.
Ndukwe is contracted to the Reds until 2031, and the absence of a permanent clause indicates that Liverpool continue to view the centre-back as part of their long-term plans.
Rather than finding an exit for a player deemed surplus to requirements, the move is designed to give the teenager senior experience while resolving his immediate eligibility problem in England.
Regular football in Spain's top flight could therefore prove valuable for both Ndukwe and Liverpool before his expected return to Merseyside next summer.
Key Points
- Ifeanyi Ndukwe is close to joining Levante on a season-long loan.
- The 18-year-old cannot currently play for Liverpool because of a UK work permit issue.
- Levante beat competition from clubs in Spain, Portugal and Denmark.
- Liverpool have not included a purchase option in the proposed agreement.
- Ndukwe remains under contract at Anfield until 2031.
What's Next?
Ndukwe is expected to travel to Spain shortly to undergo his medical and complete the final formalities before Levante announce the loan.
Liverpool will then monitor his development during the season, hoping regular senior football in Spain strengthens his case for a future role at Anfield once his eligibility situation allows it.
Could a season of regular La Liga football turn Ifeanyi Ndukwe into a genuine first-team option for Liverpool? Have your say.
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