Levante close in on Liverpool’s Ifeanyi Ndukwe in loan move

Liverpool youngster Ifeanyi Ndukwe is set to leave the club on loan after work permit restrictions prevented him from featuring competitively for the Reds in 2026.

The 18-year-old defender does not currently meet the points threshold required to secure a UK work permit, meaning he cannot play for Liverpool in a competitive fixture until his eligibility situation changes.

That restriction has opened the door for a temporary move, with several clubs reportedly showing interest in taking the towering centre-back on loan this summer.

Levante move gathers pace

Ndukwe, who stands at an imposing 6ft 6in, even taller than Liverpool captain Virgil van Dijk, has emerged as a player clubs are keen to develop through regular first-team football.

According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, Spanish La Liga side Levante have moved to the front of the queue and have agreed a loan deal with Liverpool.

“Levante have agreed on loan deal to sign Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Liverpool.

“The Spanish club will cover his salary as straight loan deal has been verbally agreed today.

“Ndukwe, waiting for formal steps with #LFC over loan exit as per @sanchis14.”

The proposed move comes just before the start of the Spanish season, with Levante keen to complete the formalities ahead of their opening fixture.

The Spanish club finished last season above the relegation zone only because of their superior head-to-head record after ending the campaign level on points with relegated Mallorca.

Van Dijk sees “big talent”

Despite Levante’s narrow escape last season, a move to Spain would give Ndukwe an opportunity to gain valuable senior experience and play regularly, something that would be difficult to guarantee at Anfield under the current circumstances.

Liverpool are understood to be open to the loan switch as they continue to monitor the development of a player regarded as having significant potential.

Ndukwe made an impression during Liverpool’s pre-season preparations, where he trained and played alongside some of the club’s established stars.

Van Dijk was particularly impressed by the youngster and labelled him a “big talent” after featuring alongside him.