Leeds United have confirmed the signing of Nigeria international Leonard Ngenge, with the teenage centre back set to join the club’s academy setup. The 18 year old arrives from Remo Stars FC, one of Nigeria’s top flight sides, who won the league title last season. He had only joined Remo Stars last summer after previously turning out for Ikorodu City, where he built his early reputation.
Leonard Ngenge made a rapid rise in Nigeria, catching the attention of national team selectors and earning a senior call up in August. He made his international debut at just 17 in a 1-0 defeat to Senegal, the current Africa Cup of Nations champions, and played the full match. A week later he featured for 45 minutes in a 4-0 loss to Sudan before being an unused substitute against Congo.
Although he did not make Nigeria’s final AFCON squad, Leeds United have moved quickly to secure his signature after monitoring his progress. The 2007 born defender had previously been contacted by Leeds during last season and now makes the move to Thorp Arch after making seven senior appearances for Remo Stars this term. Before that, he played 25 league matches for Ikorodu City, showing consistency despite his young age.
Leonard Ngenge turned 18 in September and is expected to link up with the club’s academy ranks, where he could feature for the under 21 side. If that happens, he may find himself alongside experienced player coach Jonny Howson, who is 37.
Leeds United confirmed the deal in an official statement, saying: “Leeds United are pleased to announce the signing of Leonard Ngenge, who joins the club’s Academy after penning a deal until the end of the 2026/27 season. The defender makes the move to West Yorkshire from his native Nigeria, having made seven appearances in all competitions this term for Remo Stars FC. The centre-back has featured twice for his country at senior level, making his debut in a clash with Senegal last year before also facing Sudan. Everyone at Leeds United would like to welcome Leonard to the club, where he will link up with the Academy setup.”
The move marks another step in Ngenge’s fast developing career, as he transitions from Nigerian football to the English academy system with hopes of breaking into senior football in the coming years.
