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Juventus could be involved in a transfer tug-of-war with Liverpool if reports from Italy are to be believed.

The Reds still have some work to do in the transfer window, mainly regarding the addition of another centre-back.

While 34-year-old Virgil van Dijk remains the leader at the heart of Liverpool’s defence, the uncertainty around him raises serious questions for Arne Slot’s title ambitions.

The loss of Jarell Quansah, who joined Bayer Leverkusen for £35 million in July, has removed a valuable squad option from the Dutchman’s plans.

Joe Gomez, meanwhile, remains an unreliable long-term solution and has already suffered an Achilles problem during pre-season.

In the midst of their defensive scramble, Liverpool have kept tabs on rising Serie A star Giovanni Leoni, and they now face competition from Juventus, who are reportedly preparing a formal bid.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that Liverpool’s interest in the Parma defender has only grown stronger in the past weeks.

According to the print edition of Gazzetta di Parma (via FCInterNews), the 19-year-old Parma centre-back has caught the eye of Europe’s elite with his performances in Italy’s top flight.

Juventus, keen to beat Inter Milan to Leoni’s signature, are assembling a comprehensive offer—including a substantial fee, performance-based add-ons, and favourable payment terms—to present to Parma in the coming days.

Leoni turned professional last summer when Parma secured his services from Sampdoria, and he quickly established himself as one of Serie A’s most promising young defenders.

 His aerial prowess, strong reading of the game, and maturity beyond his years earned him recognition at under-21 international level.

Liverpool’s scouts have reportedly been impressed by his ability to step into high-pressure matches and his capacity to play both in a back four and as part of a back three – tactical versatility in which Jurgen Klopp’s successor, Arne Slot, takes particular interest.

While Liverpool admire Leoni’s potential, Juventus’s long-standing relationships inside Italian football could give them the edge.

Parma’s need for immediate funds means they may be inclined to accept Juve’s well-structured proposal.

The report suggest that Liverpool’s interest remains “active,” but unless they accelerate their efforts, they could lose out on the teenager to the Old Lady.

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