Leeds United target Nigerian star as solution to left-back dilemma

Leeds United are reportedly close to finalising a future deal with the star Nigerian left-back. David NgengeAfter an impressive trial in Ikorodu City.

Although the 16-year-old has caught the eye of scouts, FIFA regulations prevent him from signing professional contracts until he turns 18. As a result, the youngster will have to wait two more years before officially joining the club.

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The delay comes at a crucial time for the Peacocks, who have struggled to find a consistent presence on the left side of their defence for several seasons.

Since replacing injury-prone Sam Byram earlier this year, Junior Firpo has established himself as the first-choice left-back under Daniel Farke. The 28-year-old Dominican has been in fine form but with his contract set to expire at the end of the season, there are growing concerns over his future at Elland Road.

If the Peacocks fail to secure promotion, Firpo could seek a new challenge and leave the club in search of another left-back. The arrival of Isaac Schmidt on the final day of the season from St Gallen gives Farke an option, but the Swiss full-back is right-footed and could be better suited to the opposite flank.

In the meantime, the club are willing to wait with Ngenge, hoping he can provide a long-term solution once he arrives. Despite the uncertainty of the next two years, Los Blancos’ willingness to invest in Ngenge’s potential speaks volumes.

As one pundit put it: “Two years is a long time, but finding a solid left-back has been a challenge for much longer. If Ngenge is worth the wait, he could finally bring stability to a position that has been in flux for years.”

With the Peacocks eyeing a return to the Premier League, the potential signing of Ngenge could prove to be a worthwhile gamble.

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