Ifeanyi Ndukwe Has Already Made His Feelings Clear on Liverpool and Virgil van Dijk Ahead of Move

By Rousing The Kop Staff | January 3, 2026

Liverpool are on the verge of securing a major coup in the transfer market, with highly-rated young defender Ifeanyi Ndukwe poised to join the club from Austria Vienna. The 17-year-old center-back, standing at an imposing 6'5", has already expressed his excitement about the move and his admiration for Reds captain Virgil van Dijk, whom he openly idolizes.[1][2]

Ndukwe, of Nigerian-Russian descent, has emerged as one of Central Europe's most promising defensive talents. Despite playing in Austria's second division with modest crowds, his performances have attracted scouts from Europe's elite clubs. He trains regularly with Austria Vienna's Bundesliga first team, was named on the bench for a UEFA Conference League match, and signed a professional contract in August 2025 expiring in 2028.[1]

Since early 2024, Ndukwe has amassed over 4,700 minutes at club level in a central role within a 3-5-2 formation, plus 1,250 minutes for Nigeria's U17 national team, including World Cup finals and European Championship qualifiers. In October 2025, he debuted in the UEFA Youth League at 17 years and 7 months old.[1]

The transfer, reportedly worth a multi-million-pound fee after Vienna rejected summer bids, faces post-Brexit rules delaying his official signing until he turns 18 in July 2026. He is then expected to link up with Liverpool's U21 setup under Rob Page. Mirror reports confirm Liverpool and Manchester United are in advanced talks, with the financially strained Championship club (potentially involved in negotiations) eager to cash in.[1]

Ndukwe's style of play draws direct comparisons to Virgil van Dijk: a right-sided defender with exceptional pace, aerial dominance, and composure on the ball. In recent quotes, he stated, "Liverpool is my dream club, and learning from Van Dijk would be incredible—he's the best in the world at what he does." His enthusiasm has only fueled excitement among Anfield faithful, positioning him as a long-term successor amid fitness concerns for Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté.[1][2]

This signing underscores Liverpool's savvy recruitment strategy, targeting undervalued gems to bolster their youth pipeline and future defense.[2]

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