Liverpool are reportedly closing in on a deal for Parma’s highly rated teenage centre-back Giovanni Leoni, with the Serie A side believed to be open to selling for around €35 million.
Italian journalist Nicolo Ceccarini claims the Reds haven’t made a formal bid yet but have already held direct talks to gauge his availability, boosting their confidence in securing an agreement. Inter Milan, once a strong contender for the 18-year-old, are now out of the race.
Parma had previously been tipped to accept €30 million plus add-ons, but Ceccarini says their preferred package is closer to €35 million — a figure Liverpool may be willing to meet. The urgency stems from the £35 million sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen and Joe Gomez’s injury, which has left Arne Slot with only Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate fully fit at centre-back.
Leoni’s stock has risen quickly after making 17 Serie A appearances for Parma last season, scoring once, and earning praise from legendary coach Arrigo Sacchi for his maturity, composure, and mentality. Liverpool are said to have a verbal agreement with the player on personal terms, with only the transfer fee left to negotiate.
If completed, Leoni could be part of a long-term defensive rebuild at Anfield — potentially alongside another top target, Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi — signalling Liverpool’s intent to strengthen for both the present and the future.
