Lincoln City have confirmed the signing of Ukrainian midfielder Ivan Varfolomeev from Slovan Liberec, subject to international clearance and work permit approval.
The 21-year-old has penned a four-year contract at the LNER Stadium, becoming the Imps’ latest summer arrival.
Lincoln Secure International Midfield Addition
Varfolomeev moves to Lincoln after spending the past three years with Czech top-flight side Slovan Liberec, having initially developed in the youth system of Rukh Lviv. He made over 50 league appearances in the Czech First League, while also representing Ukraine at under-21 level.
Head coach Michael Skubala believes the midfielder’s qualities will translate well to League One football.
“Ivan has all the attributes that we want in this position, he has a real pedigree with multiple U21 caps for Ukraine and we believe that he has a high ceiling. We also think that his game will suit English football as he’s aggressive and competitive, effective out of possession and efficient with the ball.
“He fits our profile as a No.6 and we are delighted that we have been able to bring Ivan to the club,” Skubala said.
Director of football Jez George revealed the transfer had been in planning for several months, with recruitment data identifying Varfolomeev as a target earlier in the year. He explained that the player’s willingness to move to England was a key factor in finalising negotiations.
“Ivan was flagged up through our data modelling over six months ago and since then we have watched him extensively. After selling Ethan Erhahon, we further assessed his availability and affordability in this window, as well as his desire to play in England.
“With those boxes ticked, we escalated the evaluation process and entered negotiations with Slovan Liberec and the player’s agent to secure a deal,” George confirmed.
Lincoln have thanked Liberec officials for the smooth conduct of talks, with George acknowledging sporting director Theodor Gebre Selassie for his role in the process. The club also recognised agents Antoni Lukasiewicz and Pawel Hajduczek for facilitating the move.
The signing follows the recent departure of Erhahon, whose sale opened the door for further reinvestment in the squad. With a four-year deal secured, the Imps see Varfolomeev as a long-term asset who can grow into a key figure in the coming seasons.
Writer’s View
This move underlines Lincoln’s commitment to a sustainable recruitment model, targeting players who combine present ability with future value. Varfolomeev’s arrival is a statement of intent, particularly given the size of the investment involved. While immediate comparisons with Erhahon are inevitable, the Ukrainian represents a different type of signing: one with room to develop into a central figure rather than arriving fully established.
Supporters should expect flashes of quality as he adapts to a new league and culture, but patience will be important. If nurtured correctly, Lincoln may have found a midfielder capable of anchoring their side for years to come, while also embodying the club’s long-term vision of growth and progress.
