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Fabrizio Romano has delivered a fresh update on a defender Liverpool have been closely monitoring as the transfer window progresses.
Liverpool’s defensive plans remain a key focus as the transfer window edges towards its final weeks.
Among the players under consideration is Parma’s Giovanni Leoni, an 18-year-old centre-back standing at 6ft 4in, who has quickly built a reputation as one of Europe’s most promising young defenders.
Last season, he made it into Parma’s first team, featuring in 17 matches and gaining valuable experience at senior level.
His aerial dominance is already elite — leading all U20 centre-backs across Europe’s top seven leagues with a 64.52% success rate in aerial duels, ahead of Barcelona’s Pau Cubarsi (59.17%) and Real Madrid’s Dean Huijsen (58.14%).
(via DataMB)
With Arne Slot intent on shaping a backline for both the present and the future, attention on Leoni has grown steadily in recent weeks.
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Liverpool have reached an agreement with Giovanni Leoni on personal terms, with the player giving the green light to join the project.
Talks are ongoing with Parma, who value the 18-year-old at around €30 million.
As reported by Fabrizio Romano, the Reds want Leoni available for Arne Slot’s squad this season, ruling out any loan-back option to Italy.
Advanced discussions continue as Liverpool push to finalise the deal within this window rather than wait until summer 2026.
According to Matteo Moretto, the Italian centre-back is increasingly closer to Liverpool, with negotiations well on track between the parties.
If completed, the signing of Leoni would provide Liverpool with a long-term defensive option and a timely boost ahead of the new season.
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