Liverpool seem to be close to finalizing a deal for Parma’s highly regarded centre-back, Giovanni Leoni, with the Serie A club reportedly willing to let the teenager go for around €35 million.
Italian journalist Nicolo Ceccarini reports that while Liverpool have yet to make an official offer, they have already initiated direct talks to gauge Leoni’s availability. These discussions have boosted Liverpool’s confidence that a transfer is possible. Inter Milan, previously considered strong competitors for the 18-year-old, are now believed to be out of contention.
Earlier reports suggested Parma might accept around €30 million plus add-ons, but Ceccarini indicates the club’s preferred fee is closer to €35 million — a sum that could secure the defender’s move to Anfield. The key question remains how far Liverpool will go to meet this valuation.
Why Liverpool Are Pushing for Leoni Now
This transfer is happening at a crucial moment for Liverpool. The £35 million sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen has left manager Arne Slot with limited options at centre-back. Joe Gomez’s injury has increased the pressure, leaving Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate as the only fully fit senior central defenders.
Both Slot and Van Dijk have publicly stressed the need to strengthen the defense, especially following Liverpool’s Community Shield loss to Crystal Palace. Despite Liverpool spending over £300 million this summer on players like Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Armin Pesci, and Freddie Woodman, bolstering the defense remains a priority.
The Player and His Growing Reputation
Leoni’s stock has risen quickly after his breakthrough season at Parma, where he made 17 Serie A appearances and scored once. Though still young and relatively inexperienced at senior level, he has represented Italy’s under-19 team and earned praise from some of Italian football’s top figures.
Legendary coach Arrigo Sacchi, writing for La Gazzetta dello Sport, described Leoni as “a young man with the qualities to go far,” noting his composure, mentality, and work ethic. Sacchi downplayed worries about Leoni’s youth, stating “talent knows no age,” and emphasized that even veteran players may lack what Leoni already shows.
Sacchi also highlighted the importance of allowing young players to learn from mistakes, predicting Leoni would make few errors due to his maturity and commitment.
Next Steps
Liverpool reportedly have a verbal agreement with Leoni on personal terms, leaving the fee with Parma as the last major obstacle. Although Leoni’s contract runs until 2029, insiders believe a deal could be finalized soon.
If completed, Leoni would become part of Liverpool’s long-term defensive strategy, potentially alongside Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, another key target. The pursuit of both players reflects Liverpool’s plan to strengthen their squad immediately while preparing for the future.
By signing Leoni, Liverpool would not just be adding a defender for the present but investing in a potential defensive cornerstone for years to come.
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