Liverpool have agreed terms with 18-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni, with negotiations now advanced with Parma.
Liverpool have reached a full verbal agreement to sign Giovanni Leoni from Parma, according to Florian Plettenberg (Sky). The highly rated 18-year-old wants to join the Reds immediately, with talks between the clubs now at an advanced stage.
Currently earning around €10,000 per week in Italy, Leoni will see a significant pay rise if the deal goes through. His arrival would mark another step in Arne Slot’s push to rebuild Liverpool’s defence before the deadline.
Liverpool’s Centre-Back Recruitment Plan
Leoni is one of two centre-backs Liverpool want to add before the window closes. Plettenberg reports that the Reds have also reached a verbal agreement with Marc Guehi — an experienced option to pair with Virgil van Dijk — while Leoni represents the “future talent” signing in their strategy.
The focus on both a proven Premier League defender and an emerging European star underlines Slot’s intent to balance immediate stability with long-term planning.
Why Liverpool Want Leoni
Leoni has been making waves in Serie A for his composure on the ball, aerial dominance, and ability to step into midfield. His performances for Parma last season attracted interest from multiple top clubs, but Liverpool’s project — and the chance to develop under Slot — has proven decisive.
“Giovanni is one of the brightest young defenders in Italy. Liverpool is the right step for his development.” — Italian football pundit, via Sky Germany
Giovanni Leoni – 2024/25 Stats
| Stat (2024/25) | Giovanni Leoni |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 34 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Assists | 0 |
| Pass Accuracy | 86% |
Summary: Leoni made 34 appearances for Parma last season, scoring once. His 86% pass accuracy and calm distribution highlight his suitability for a possession-based system.
Analyst Verdict
From analysing Leoni’s Serie A displays, his maturity is beyond his years. He reads the game well, rarely dives into tackles unnecessarily, and is confident carrying the ball into midfield — traits that fit Liverpool’s evolving style under Slot.
Pairing him with senior defenders like Van Dijk or Guehi could ease his transition and give Liverpool both short-term depth and long-term succession planning.
Key Insights
- Liverpool have full verbal agreement with Leoni.
- Talks with Parma at advanced stage.
- Part of Arne Slot’s plan to sign two centre-backs (Guehi + Leoni).
- Wage rise from €10k/week expected on Merseyside.
What’s Next
Liverpool will look to finalise terms with Parma in the coming days, with a medical and official unveiling possible before the end of next week. The Guehi deal is also progressing, meaning the Reds could unveil two centre-backs in quick succession before Deadline Day.
If completed, the signings would be a major statement of intent from Slot ahead of Liverpool’s Premier League campaign.
Is Liverpool’s two-pronged centre-back plan the key to a genuine title push this season?
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