Liverpool agree deal to sign Giovanni Leoni

Liverpool has struck a €35 million deal with Parma to sign Italian defender Giovanni Leoni, according to journalist Fabrizio Romano.

The 18-year-old centre-back, regarded as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders, has agreed personal terms with Liverpool ahead of a move to Anfield.

Leoni’s breakthrough 2024-25 season at Parma earned him widespread acclaim. He made 17 appearances, showcasing his defensive prowess and dominance in the air.

Leoni had the highest percentage of aerial duels won among players aged 20 and under in Europe’s top five leagues last season.

Though Leoni’s initial role at Anfield may be to develop under the guidance of senior defenders like Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate, his arrival signals the club’s long-term defensive planning.

There had been some speculation about a possible loan back to Parma, but Liverpool plan to integrate him into the squad immediately.

Leoni may not be the only defender set to arrive at Liverpool before the transfer window shuts, as the Reds remain in talks with Crystal Palace over a deal for Marc Guehi.

Guehi has interest from elsewhere but is currently prioritising a move to Liverpool, and Palace are almost resigned to parting ways with their skipper this summer to avoid losing him for free next year.

Liverpool’s need for defensive reinforcement has been intensified by the sale of Jarrell Quansah and Joe Gomez’s injury woes.

This has left Van Dijk and Konate as the only senior centre-backs available, and the latter’s long-term future on Merseyside remains uncertain with one year left on his current deal.

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