Liverpool manager Andoni Iraola could decide against adding another defender during the January transfer window after Ifeanyi Ndukwe moved closer to becoming eligible to return from his loan at Levante.
The Spanish coach had already chosen not to bring in further defensive cover despite concerns over injuries within his squad.
Liverpool secured Ronald Araujo on a season-long loan from Barcelona, while Jeremey Jacquet arrived from Rennes as part of a deal agreed in advance.
However, Jacquet has only recently returned from injury, and both Conor Bradley and Giovanni Leoni remain unavailable. Iraola’s decision to work with his existing defensive options was therefore considered a risk.
That situation could change at the start of 2027, when Liverpool will have the option of recalling Ndukwe from his loan with LaLiga side Levante.
The 18-year-old centre-back made his debut for Levante in Sunday’s 4-2 home defeat by champions Barcelona. His appearance has taken him to the threshold needed to obtain a UK work permit.
Liverpool can now bring Ndukwe back to Anfield if Iraola believes recalling the highly rated teenager is the right decision.