LIVERPOOL SEAL £26M DEAL TO SIGN 18-YEAR-OLD DEFENDER GIOVANNI LEONI FROM PARMA, WITH ADD-ONS INCLUDED
Liverpool have confirmed the signing of 18-year-old defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma in a deal worth £26m plus add-ons, tying the Italian to a long-term contract until 2031.
Leoni, who only made his senior debut in 2023 with Padova before spells at Sampdoria and Parma, has enjoyed a meteoric rise. After just 17 Serie A appearances last season, the towering 6ft 5in centre-back has already convinced Europe’s elite of his potential. Both AC Milan and Inter were monitoring his progress, but Liverpool moved swiftly to secure his signature.
“You don’t say no to Liverpool,” Leoni admitted. “This is one of the greatest clubs in the world, and I can’t wait to get started.”
Liverpool have been light in central defence following the departure of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen, leaving Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konaté as the only established options for the Community Shield. While the club continues to pursue Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, Leoni’s arrival provides much-needed depth as well as a long-term successor to Van Dijk, who turns 34 this season.
Known for his dominance in the air and calmness on the ball, Leoni ranked among the top performers in Serie A for aerial duels won despite his limited game time. Slot and his coaching staff believe he can develop quickly in England, especially learning alongside Van Dijk, a player Leoni has often cited as his biggest influence.
Though he may need patience before becoming a regular starter, Leoni is regarded as one of Europe’s most promising teenage defenders and represents a significant investment in Liverpool’s future. His transfer is still subject to international clearance and a work permit, but once completed, he will link up with his new teammates as the Reds prepare to defend their Premier League title and return to the Champions League.
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