Liverpool Close in on Giovanni Leoni Signing
Liverpool are poised to make a major move in the transfer market, with reports suggesting that a deal for Parma centre-back Giovanni Leoni could be completed within the next 24 hours. This would mark the seventh signing of the Reds’ busy summer window.
The Premier League champions have been active in recent weeks, yet recruitment has slowed since the arrival of Hugo Ekitike. With several areas in the squad still requiring reinforcement, Liverpool’s focus has turned to bolstering their defensive options.
Urgent Need for Centre-Back Reinforcements
Liverpool currently have three senior centre-backs: Virgil van Dijk, 34, alongside Joe Gomez and Ibrahima Konate, both of whom have struggled with injuries. The imminent departure of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen for £35m leaves the club with even fewer options at the back. With Konate’s contract due to expire next summer, it has become critical for Liverpool to secure reinforcements in central defence.
According to journalist Ben Jacobs, Liverpool are “very close to a full agreement” for Giovanni Leoni. The 18-year-old Italian is highly regarded in Serie A and has been described as a “special talent” by Fabrizio Romano. Seen as a potential heir to van Dijk, Leoni is expected to spend a few seasons learning under the Dutchman before taking over the mantle.
https://twitter.com/JacobsBen/status/1955597502264316162
Leoni would become Liverpool’s seventh summer signing after the arrivals of Giorgi Mamardashvili, Freddie Woodman, Jeremie Frimpong, Milos Kerkez, Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike.
Transfer Fee and Deal Details
The proposed deal for Giovanni Leoni is reported to be in the region of £30m. Sources suggest that Liverpool are working to finalise the agreement swiftly, with completion possible within a day. The urgency highlights the club’s commitment to ensuring squad depth in defence, a position that has come under particular scrutiny during pre-season.
Leoni’s arrival would not only provide cover but also introduce a long-term solution at centre-back, blending youth and experience in Liverpool’s defensive ranks.
Liverpool Targeting Additional Defenders
While the club edges closer to signing Leoni, attention has also turned to Crystal Palace centre-back Marc Guehi. Liverpool are keen on acquiring a player capable of making an immediate impact, but Guehi’s desire for guaranteed playing time could complicate negotiations. The Reds hope to secure him for a fee between £30m and £35m, but any deal will depend on meeting both financial and sporting conditions.
With the transfer window closing in just over two weeks, Liverpool’s defensive recruitment could define the final days of what has already been an eventful summer at Anfield. Giovanni Leoni’s potential signing, coupled with continued interest in Marc Guehi, signals that the Reds remain determined to strengthen their squad after a historic 2024/25 campaign under Arne Slot.
Liverpool supporters will be watching closely, as decisions in the coming days could have a lasting impact on the club’s ambitions in the Premier League and Europe.
