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Liverpool are on the verge of completing the signing of the highly-rated Parma centre-back Giovanni Leoni, with a fee agreed in principle believed to be around £26 million. The deal marks a significant step as Liverpool aim to bolster their defensive options after an underwhelming performance in the Community Shield and the sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen.
Leoni, an 18-year-old Italy Under-19 international, impressed during the latter stages of last season in Serie A, featuring prominently in matches against top teams such as Napoli, Inter Milan, Juventus, Lazio, and Fiorentina. His performances have boosted his stock considerably, making him a sought-after defensive prospect.
Despite interest from Serie A giants like AC Milan, Inter, and Juventus, Liverpool have emerged as the frontrunners due to their willingness to meet Parma’s valuation and their ability to guarantee Leoni a pathway in the Premier League. Earlier bids from Bournemouth and other clubs were rejected due to lower offers.
The Reds are reportedly also interested in signing Crystal Palace defender Marc Guehi, with plans to strengthen different areas in defense simultaneously. However, there are no current plans to loan Leoni back to Parma, indicating Liverpool intend to integrate him into their squad soon.
Leoni is not expected to be available immediately for Liverpool’s Premier League season opener against Bournemouth but could be registered and ready for their fixture against Newcastle United on August 25. The signing reflects Liverpool’s strategy to invest in young, high-potential defenders to secure long-term stability at the back amid uncertain futures for other defensive players like Ibrahima Konaté and injury concerns for Joe Gomez.
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