Reigning premier league champions Liverpool have reached an agreement to sign highly-rated teenage defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma in a deal worth €35 million (£30m/$41m), according to Fabrizio Romano.
The 18-year-old, who can operate both at centre-back and right-back, will join the Reds as their seventh first-team signing of the summer. The move comes just days after it emerged that Liverpool are likely to miss out on Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi, who is set to stay at Selhurst Park for at least the final year of his contract.
A Rising Star
Leoni has made just 17 first-team appearances for Parma but has already attracted attention from top clubs, including AC Milan and Inter Milan. Known for his aerial strength and composure on the ball, the teenager is comfortable stepping out from defence to launch attacks, while excelling in aerial duels — a trait he has developed significantly over the past year.
A boyhood admirer of Virgil van Dijk, Leoni will now have the opportunity to train and learn alongside the Liverpool captain. The chance to join the Premier League champions is seen as a major step in his career development.
Market Move
Liverpool’s decision to act swiftly — and pay slightly more than Parma’s initial valuation — reflects their belief in Leoni’s long-term potential. While breaking into the starting XI immediately will be difficult, his integration into such a competitive squad is viewed as invaluable experience at this stage of his career.
Summer Business
The Reds have been active in the transfer market, with high-profile arrivals such as Florian Wirtz and Hugo Ekitike grabbing headlines. Leoni’s signing, however, represents an investment in the club’s defensive future.
Liverpool will open their Premier League title defence on Friday against Bournemouth and will hope to have Leoni’s transfer finalised in time for the season curtain-raiser at Anfield.
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