Liverpool have enjoyed a highly successful summer transfer window so far, and sporting director Richard Hughes might yet secure the final piece fans have been hoping for.
Despite several new signings since last season ended, the Reds currently have just three senior centre-backs available, and one of them—Joe Gomez—is sidelined with injury. However, reinforcements could be on the way.
According to Paul Joyce of The Times, Liverpool have entered talks with Crystal Palace over a possible move for Marc Guehi. Joyce also noted that the club is showing strong interest in teenage Parma defender Giovanni Leoni.
Reports suggest Liverpool are targeting both Guehi and Leoni in a potential double signing. Sky Germany’s Florian Plettenberg confirmed that the Reds are actively trying to land both players this month, not just one.
Posting on X, Plettenberg stated that Guehi is Liverpool’s main priority, with negotiations ongoing and the 25-year-old England international keen on the move. Talks for 18-year-old Leoni are also said to be advanced, with the club eager to bring him in during the current window.
The pursuit of both defenders shows Liverpool’s intent to not only strengthen their current squad but also prepare for the future—potentially lining up a long-term successor to Virgil van Dijk.
Joyce reported that Guehi could be available for around £35 million including add-ons—a bargain for a proven Premier League defender in his prime and an FA Cup-winning captain.
Meanwhile, Leoni is at the beginning of his professional journey, with only 33 senior appearances so far. Still, Total Football Analysis describes him as a calm, dominant centre-back with excellent anticipation, passing ability, and composure under pressure—already making waves in Serie A.
While Guehi seems eager to join, persuading Leoni may be more complex. He’d likely have limited playing time under new manager Arne Slot unless Liverpool agree to loan him back to Parma for the season so he can continue his development.
Should Liverpool manage to secure both deals—and loan out Leoni temporarily—it would significantly boost depth at centre-back and reflect the outstanding work being done by Hughes and the club’s recruitment staff.
Leave a Reply