Liverpool Secure Highly-Rated Centre-Back Giovanni Leoni from Parma

Liverpool have signed young defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma. They beat Newcastle United to get one of Italy’s top young talents.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Parma‘s CEO said the club turned down a better offer from Newcastle for Leoni. But when Liverpool showed interest, plans changed. The deal, completed in mid-August, is worth up to £30 million including bonuses, as confirmed by reports. Liverpool acted fast as Leoni wanted to join the Premier League champions. He said he felt “very happy” and “honoured” to move to Anfield. The 18-year-old, at 6ft 4in, shined in Serie A with 17 games and one goal for Parma in the 2024-25 season, helping them avoid relegation. He will wear the No.15 shirt at Liverpool.

WHY THE TRANSFER MATTERS

Leoni’s move is part of Liverpool’s plan to create a strong, young defense for the future. The Italian defender’s mix of size, skills, and potential excites fans at Anfield, and he will learn from players like Virgil van Dijk. Though other clubs wanted him, Leoni was set on joining Liverpool, acknowledging a strong desire to make the switch. His quick success is notable; he played only 12 times in Italy’s second division before joining Parma and debuting in Padova at just 16. Defending champions Liverpool are on a mission to retain their crown under the tutelage of Arne Slot and finished last season with 84 points, ten ahead of Arsenal.

WHAT’S NEXT FOR LEONI AND LIVERPOOL?

Leoni will stay with Liverpool’s main team instead of being loaned out. He will fight for a place in defense with Van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez, as the Reds play in both the Premier League and Champions League this season. Liverpool’s title defense is off to a good start after beating Bournemouth, Newcastle and Arsenal in the three opening matches, sitting clear at the top and two points ahead of Chelsea. Liverpool, currently leading the Premier League with nine points from three matches, aims for a strong start, with Arsenal and Manchester City close rivals after last season’s tight finish. Leoni could potentially make his Premier League debut against Burnley in the team’s next match, with fans curious to see if he can handle top-level English football.