Versatile left-footed Nigerian centre-back agrees pre-contract with Leeds United

Exciting left-footed Nigerian centre-back Leonard Ngenge has signed a preliminary contract with Championship table toppers Leeds United ahead of the 2025-2026 season.

The Whites extensively scouted the talented teenager in Nigeria before he was invited to West Yorkshire for further assessment.

Considered one of the brightest teenage prospects in the Nigeria Premier Football League, Ngenge has impressed with his ability to excel as both a centre-back and a left-back.

Leeds United are expected to complete a deal for Ngenge later this year when he attains the age of majority, as football's governing body Fifa prohibits the  international transfer of players under the age of 18.

According to Ikorodu City's Director, Wale Quadri, the 17-year-old will embark on a new chapter in his career in the summer of 2025, with Leeds United his destination.

Despite having first team experience at the Lagos-based Nigerian top-flight club, Ngenge will initially be a part of Leeds United's development squad.

Speaking to allnigeriasoccer.com, Quadri said: "Ngenge has an existing deal with Leeds United, it's a pre-contract. By August he should be joining Leeds.

"He was scouted in Nigeria and then invited to Leeds for further training. He came back like two weeks ago from Leeds. That should be his second visit to Leeds.

"He is being signed as a player for the future, they are just waiting for him to turn 18 years."

In his most recent NPFL outing, Ngenge set up the decisive goal in Ikorodu City's 1-0 win against Lobi Stars and was deservedly named the official Man of the Match.

Nigerian duo Isaac Schmidt and James Debayo have played in official matches for Leeds United first team in the ongoing season.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

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