Leeds United are monitoring Austrian Bundesliga defender Chibuike Nwaiwu ahead of the January transfer window, but face significant competition from top European clubs.
According to information from Top Mercato, Chibuike Nwaiwu (22) has aroused the interest of several clubs across Europe. Leeds have shown a willingness to scout emerging talent from lesser-known leagues in recent years, and the Austrian Bundesliga represents an increasingly attractive market given its track record of developing defenders capable of making the step up to elite European football. At just €7m (£6m), the Wolfsberger centre-back would represent a relatively modest investment for a player of his potential.
The 22-year-old's versatility, being able to operate as a defensive midfielder as well as at centre-back, would also appeal to Daniel Farke, who values tactical flexibility in his squad.
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Leeds face stiff competition from Ligue 1 giants and Bayer Leverkusen
However, Leeds are far from alone in their admiration for the Nigerian defender. L1 clubs RC Lens, Lille, Olympique de Marseille, RC Strasbourg and even Paris Saint-Germain have recently enquired about Nwaiwu, who arrived in Austria in summer 2024 from Heartland FC in his homeland.
Austria has been one of the favoured hunting grounds for Ligue 1 clubs in recent windows, with Mamadou Sangare, Samson Baidoo, Daouda Guindo and Isak Jansson all making the move last summer.
Bayer Leverkusen are also monitoring the situation closely. Under contract until June 2027 and valued at €7m (£6m) by specialist site Transfermarkt, Nwaiwu is considered one of the very best in his position in the Austrian Bundesliga.
Powerful (1.93m), strong in reading the game and distribution, the right-footer notably won the Austrian Cup last season. Although he is not yet a senior Nigeria international and not expected in Eric Chelle's squad for AFCON, Chibuike Nwaiwu has certainly not finished making headlines.
This article was originally published on Top Mercato.
