Liverpool are holding tabs on Parma’s 18-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni, including him to their shortlist for the summer time switch window, although no formal talks have taken place but.
The Reds’ principal defensive focus stays on Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, with membership officers intent on sealing that deal first. If Guehi arrives, a transfer for Leoni might be pushed to the January 2026 window.
Leoni loved a breakout 2024/25 season in Serie A, making 17 league appearances and catching the attention of a number of Italian giants, together with Juventus, Napoli, and Inter Milan. He’s at present valued at round €18 million.
German reporter Florian Plettenberg confirmed the Anfield curiosity on his official X deal with, writing:
“Liverpool are carefully monitoring Giovanni #Leoni. The proficient 18 y/o centre-back from Parma is already on their checklist for this summer time, though nothing is superior at this stage. #LFC focus at present stays on Marc Guehi. Leoni is certainly one to look at for this and the subsequent switch window. A number of prime Italian golf equipment are additionally eager on him.”
Softfootball can affirm that Liverpool’s curiosity is turning into an increasing number of concrete, however Guehi stays the rapid goal, with private phrases reportedly agreed.
A right-footed Italy U19 worldwide, Leoni has earned reward for his composure and flexibility, successful 63% of aerial duels and 59% of floor duels in Serie A final season. His ball-playing means is one other standout trait, boasting 88.7% passing accuracy and rating within the sixty fourth percentile for profitable dribbles amongst centre-backs.
Leoni made his skilled debut for Padova in Serie C aged simply 16 years and three months, turning into the youngest professional participant in Italy that season. Spells with Sampdoria (12 appearances) after which Parma adopted, the latter signing him for round £10 million in June 2024.
With Joe Gomez sidelined and Ibrahima Konaté coming into the ultimate yr of his contract, Liverpool are looking for each an instantaneous defensive improve and a long-term mission. Leoni, who can even slot in at right-back, suits the invoice although his relative inexperience (33 senior appearances) means he’s extra prone to be a part of a gradual succession plan alongside a confirmed title.
