Liverpool are reportedly in advanced talks to sign Italian defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma. According to transfer expert Fabrizio Romano, personal terms have already been agreed between the player and Liverpool, but Parma are asking for a €30 million fee to finalize the deal.
Giovanni Leoni’s Rise in Italian Football
Giovanni Leoni has emerged as one of Italy’s most promising young defenders. Known for his tactical intelligence, versatility, and physicality, Leoni has impressed scouts across Europe. Primarily a centre-back, he can also operate as a right-back when needed, giving his team valuable flexibility.
His performances for Parma have showcased his ability to read the game, intercept passes, and contribute to building attacks from the back, which has attracted interest from top clubs like Liverpool.
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Why Liverpool Are Interested
Liverpool’s defence has been a topic of discussion in recent seasons. While Virgil van Dijk remains world-class, the club has looked to strengthen squad depth and prepare for the future.
Leoni’s profile fits Liverpool’s tactical style under Jürgen Klopp:
- Comfortable in a high defensive line.
- Strong in 1v1 duels and aerial challenges.
- Can help in starting play from the back, aligning with Klopp’s philosophy.
Signing a young, talented defender like Leoni also provides long-term potential for the club, ensuring a smooth succession as current senior defenders age or rotate.
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Parma’s Perspective
Parma have set a €30 million asking price for Leoni, reflecting his potential and the growing market for young defenders. For a club like Parma, selling now would provide significant funds to reinvest in other areas of the squad.
While €30M is a considerable sum, it’s consistent with the current European market for emerging defensive talents. If Liverpool want to secure the player before other clubs intervene, they may have to meet Parma’s valuation or negotiate structured payments.
Transfer Window Context
The summer transfer window has been active across Europe, with top clubs seeking to strengthen squads ahead of the new season. Liverpool have already been linked with several defensive targets, aiming to add depth and competition within the squad.
Acquiring Leoni now would ensure Liverpool have a ready-to-go option for the 2025–26 season, giving Klopp flexibility across domestic and European competitions.
Leoni’s Potential Role at Liverpool
Leoni is expected to compete for minutes in the central defensive positions alongside Van Dijk, Joel Matip, and Ibrahima Konaté. His arrival could also allow rotation and tactical adjustments in games where Liverpool need to rest senior defenders.
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Given his technical ability and versatility, Leoni could also play in cup competitions or high-pressure league fixtures, providing valuable cover and competition for the starting lineup.
Impact on Squad Dynamics
Adding a player like Leoni could have multiple benefits for Liverpool:
- Strengthening squad depth and reducing reliance on a few key defenders.
- Introducing a young, hungry talent who can challenge senior players and raise training standards.
- Offering tactical flexibility for Klopp to rotate formations depending on opponents.
Next Steps in the Transfer
While personal terms have reportedly been agreed, Liverpool will need to finalize negotiations with Parma to complete the transfer. With a €30M price tag, discussions may include structured payments or potential add-ons to satisfy both parties.
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Fans can expect updates in the coming days as both clubs aim to finalize the deal before the transfer window deadline. If successful, Leoni’s arrival could be one of Liverpool’s more significant signings of the summer.
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Why This Transfer Matters
Signing a promising young defender like Giovanni Leoni is a strategic move for Liverpool:
- It secures a player who can contribute immediately while preparing for the future.
- Provides depth in a key position that can be affected by injuries and fixture congestion.
- Signals Klopp’s commitment to developing young talent in alignment with Liverpool’s long-term vision.
For Leoni, joining Liverpool represents a major step in his career, moving to one of Europe’s top clubs and gaining experience in the Premier League and UEFA competitions.
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Liverpool’s pursuit of Giovanni Leoni reflects their ambition to strengthen the squad for both the present and future. While Parma’s €30M demand is a notable hurdle, personal terms already being agreed shows the player is keen on the move.
If the deal goes through, it will mark another step in Liverpool’s summer transfer strategy, reinforcing the defence and providing Jürgen Klopp with additional options to compete at the highest level.
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