Godwin ObajeLeeds United Complete Signing of Manchester City Starlet Jayden Lienou on Three-Year Deal
Leeds United have confirmed the signing of highly-rated teenage defender Jayden Lienou from Manchester City, as the club continues its strategic investment in youth development.
The 17-year-old left-back has signed a three-year contract at Elland Road, committing his future to the Whites until 2028. Lienou will link up with Leeds’ academy at Thorp Arch as he continues his progression through the youth ranks, having already made a name for himself at both domestic and international youth level.
A product of Manchester City’s prestigious youth system, Lienou was a key figure in their Under-18 side that clinched the U18 Premier League North title last season. His performances caught the attention of scouts across the country, but it is Leeds who have secured his signature in what appears to be a smart long-term acquisition.
In an official club statement released on Thursday, Leeds United said:
“Leeds United are pleased to announce the signing of Jayden Lienou, who joins the club’s Academy from Manchester City. The left-back has put pen to paper on a three-year deal with the Whites, tying the 17-year-old down to 2028 as he now continues his development at Thorp Arch.”
The club added:
“A regular in City’s side that last season won the U18 Premier League North, Lienou has also represented Wales at youth level. Everyone at Leeds United would like to welcome Jayden to the club and we look forward to seeing his development at Thorp Arch.”
Lienou is a youth international for Wales and has featured across multiple age groups, demonstrating consistency and maturity beyond his years. His arrival adds further depth to a growing pool of young talent at Leeds, who are actively strengthening their academy ahead of the new season.
The signing of Lienou follows shortly after the club secured the services of another young defender, Louis Enahoro-Marcus. The 18-year-old centre-back recently joined on a two-year deal after being released by Liverpool, where he had spent nearly a decade.
The duo’s arrival underscores Leeds United’s focus on building a strong foundation for the future, aiming to develop talent capable of transitioning into the senior setup over time.
While neither player is expected to make an immediate impact on the first team, the club’s recruitment strategy clearly points to a long-term vision that values potential and homegrown development—key components in Leeds’ ongoing evolution.
With Thorp Arch continuing to play a pivotal role in the club’s structure, the integration of players like Lienou and Enahoro-Marcus ensures Leeds remain firmly committed to cultivating future stars from within.
Godwin Obaje
