Leeds United have completed the signing of highly rated Nigerian teenage defender Leonard Ngenge, with the 18-year-old centre back joining the club’s academy setup as part of his next developmental step in Europe.
Ngenge arrives at Thorp Arch from Nigeria Premier Football League champions Remo Stars FC, where he made seven senior appearances this season following his move from Ikorodu City last summer.
Despite his tender age, the 2007-born defender has already built an impressive résumé, marked by consistency, composure and rapid progression through the ranks of Nigerian football.
His rise has been swift and eye-catching. After featuring in 25 league matches for Ikorodu City, Ngenge earned a move to Remo Stars and soon attracted national attention, culminating in a surprise senior Super Eagles call-up in August.
He made his international debut at just 17, playing the full 90 minutes in a narrow 1-0 defeat to reigning Africa Cup of Nations champions Senegal, before logging 45 minutes against Sudan in a subsequent qualifier.
Although he narrowly missed out on Nigeria’s final AFCON squad, Leeds United had already been monitoring his development and moved decisively to secure his signature.
The Yorkshire club confirmed that Ngenge has signed a deal running until the end of the 2026/27 season and will initially link up with the academy ranks, with the possibility of featuring for the Under-21 side.
In an official statement, Leeds United expressed confidence in the young defender’s potential, noting his senior international experience and steady performances at club level despite his age.
The move represents a significant milestone in Ngenge’s burgeoning career, as he transitions from the Nigerian top flight to the highly competitive English academy system.
For the teenager, the focus now shifts to adapting, developing and positioning himself for a future breakthrough into senior football at Elland Road.
