Liverpool’s Interest in Parma’s Giovanni Leoni Adds Twist to Milan Derby
Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport has reported that Giovanni Leoni – Parma’s 18-year-old defensive prodigy – is at the centre of a potential transfer battle between AC Milan and Inter Milan. But the intriguing detail for Liverpool fans is that the Reds have also made enquiries about the highly rated centre-back.
Parma have so far “rebuffed all attempts for the 18-year-old, and there have even been inquiries from Liverpool, but in general they’ve turned down several foreign clubs.” Their valuation remains firm at €35 million, and they are said to prefer keeping Leoni for at least one more season.
Milan Derby Heats Up
Inter have been tracking Leoni for weeks but have yet to make a formal bid, reportedly due to needing player sales – with Asllani and Taremi among the names potentially moving on. This hesitation could open the door for AC Milan, who may soon have the funds to move after Newcastle United’s pursuit of Malick Thiaw.
According to the report, Newcastle’s first bid of €30 million for Thiaw was rejected, but “the English club is ready to return with a €40 million offer” – a sum Milan CEO Giorgio Furlani would struggle to refuse, especially as Thiaw already has “an agreement in principle” with the Magpies.
Why Liverpool’s Interest Matters
While Milan and Inter’s interest dominates the headlines in Italy, Liverpool’s name in the mix raises questions. With the club looking to evolve the squad, adding a versatile young centre-back could make sense. Leoni is described as a player who sees his development continuing best in Serie A – but the Premier League lure, as Thiaw reportedly believes, can be strong for those with international ambitions.
Future Still in Parma’s Hands
For now, Leoni “isn’t pushing to leave; he’s respecting Parma’s wishes and awaiting the moves of the two Milanese teams.” But if one of them – or potentially Liverpool – were to make a concrete bid, the situation could change quickly.
Our View – Anfield Index Analysis
From a Liverpool supporter’s perspective, Leoni’s profile is intriguing. At just 18, he’s already commanding a valuation in the €35–40 million bracket, suggesting Parma see him as a generational talent. His ability to read the game and his calmness under pressure are traits Liverpool value highly, especially in defenders expected to handle a high defensive line.
However, there are obvious considerations. Liverpool have a need to invest in the defensive line with Quansah departed, and Joe Gomez facing more injury struggles.
The fact that Corriere dello Sport mentions Liverpool’s enquiry hints that the club is monitoring options across Europe rather than actively pursuing a big-money bid right now. The player’s stated preference to remain in Serie A – at least for the next step – also suggests that any Anfield move would require careful persuasion.
