Transfer journalist Fabrizio Romano reports that the Reds have moved from monitoring the player to “really considering,” placing him firmly on their shortlist.

The need for another centre-back has been clear all summer, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi topping the target list but without significant progress.

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Alongside Guehi, Liverpool have also been linked with young defensive options such as Joel Ordonez of Club Brugge and Wolfsburg’s Konstantinos Koulierakis.

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Leoni enjoyed a breakout year in Serie A last season, making 17 league appearances for Parma at just 18 years old.

He ranks in the 70th percentile for duels won and the 68th percentile for aerial duels won, far ahead of Premier League figures from Jarell Quansah and Marc Guehi last season.

Romano suggests Liverpool face a strategic decision: invest in a young talent like Leoni or bring in a player with immediate top-flight impact.

Ideally, the Reds would secure both, providing depth for the present and a foundation for the future.

Leoni’s raw ability, physical dominance and rapid development have made him one of the most highly-rated young defenders in Italy.

If Liverpool proceed, the move could be one of the most exciting long-term investments of their summer window.

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