CEO explains why Liverpool beat Newcastle to major summer transfer
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Parma CEO Federico Cherubini disclosed that Newcastle United had made a more lucrative offer than Liverpool for the transfer of promising Italian defender Giovanni Leoni. However, despite Newcastle's more advantageous bid, Leoni chose to move to Liverpool, altering Parma's plans due to the player's preference for the Anfield club.
Leoni completed a $35M (£26m) transfer to Liverpool on the transfer deadline day, just before Liverpool’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth. The defender expressed his excitement and honor at joining Liverpool, describing it as a “really great sensation.” Although Newcastle's bid was financially better, Leoni’s desire to join Liverpool was decisive in the deal's completion.
The CEO expressed mixed feelings about losing such a talented young player but also pride in Parma for recognizing and developing Leoni during his early Serie B career. Leoni is now part of a Liverpool squad featuring multiple Premier League internationals, including new signing Gianluigi Donnarumma from Manchester City.
Leoni is expected to potentially make his Liverpool debut in the Premier League match against Burnley on September 14, 2025. If not, he could debut in the Champions League opener against Atletico Madrid, as Liverpool looks forward to European competition. Later matches include a significant tie against Inter Milan at San Siro on December 9.
In summary, the transfer highlights Leoni’s strong preference for Liverpool over Newcastle despite financial advantages, underscoring the pull of Liverpool’s project and reputation for the young defender’s career trajectory.
PP