In what has been a quiet signing during this 2026 January transfer window, Liverpool have signed 19-year-old centre-back Noah Adekoya from Burnley. Adekoya joins two other players recently signed by Liverpool to join their youth side, 18 year old Talla Ndiaye from Amitie FC and Ifeanyi Ndukwe from Austria Vienna
Adekoya officially announced the move on Wednesday through his Instagram that he had signed for his boyhood club, joining as part of a recruitment drive at Liverpool this month.
Noah Adekoya's Liverpool connection and time at Burnley
Adekoya has a surprising Liverpool, and that's the fact that he was born on Merseyside. Moreover, the transfer is being seen as a full circle moment for the player, as he had previously spent six weeks on trial with Liverpool in 2018, but failed to secure a place due to injury.
Adekoya has played most of his youth career at Burnley. In fact, He was an integral part of the Burnley youth setup, having captained Burnley U18s to the title last season. The 6’3" Centre-back then went on to sign a professional contract with Burnley in October, but has now ended up joining Liverpool just months later.
While a regular for Burnley U18s last season, Adekoya also made his debut for their U21s as a 17-year-old in February 2024. Most recently he came off the bench in their 3-2 victory over Stockport U21s in October.
Noah Adekoya - Player profile and Liverpool debut
What really stood out about Adekoya at Burnley was how he proved himself to be a leader on the field, playing an aggressive, front-footed defender who is comfortable playing on both the right and left sides of the centre-back pairing. Another highlight skill of the player is his impressive passing range from both feet. Additionally, he excels when it comes to dribbling, which were proven with his frequent mazy runs from defence to the attacking third during youth games for Burnley.
He will now be joining Liverpool's U21s squad managed by Rob Page. There is even a chance that he could make his debut for the club in their clash with Norwich on Friday evening. His arrival is especially sure to be a boost for the manager, with fellow academy player Amara Nallo likely to depart on loan this month and Wellity Lucky promoted to Arne Slot's first-team squad following injuries to Giovanni Leoni and Wataru Endo. It is also possible that academy player Carter Pinnington could partner Adekoya in the coming games, as new signing Ndiaye probably needs more time to adjust to life in England following his arrival from Senegal.
Conclusion
Liverpool's defense has arguably been their biggest weakest point this season. The once legendary combination of Virgil Van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate are nowhere near their old levels. With Van Dijk getting older and Konate's contract situation making his Liverpool future uncertain, it is absolutely vital that Liverpool ensure the future of their defence with signings like Noah Adekoya.
As for the player, he looks to have all the necessary skills and leadership qualities required to make it to the very top. The world-class coaching he'll receive at Liverpool will undoubtedly help to unlock the hidden skills in him as well, and hopefully help to reach his very best possible level. The future surely does look bright for Noah Adekoya.
