Deal struck for a new defensive player by Liverpool, according to reports
Liverpool Football Club has officially announced the signing of 18-year-old Italian defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma. The centre-back, standing at 6ft4in tall, has put pen to paper on a six-year contract, joining the Premier League champions' first-team squad with no loan plans [1][2].
Born in Rome, Leoni made his Serie A breakthrough with Parma in the 2024-25 season, featuring 17 times and scoring once [1]. His impressive performances caught the attention of Liverpool, who see him as a crucial defensive reinforcement following the sale of Jarell Quansah and the existing centre-backs Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez [3].
The transfer fee, reported to be £26 million plus add-ons, contributes to Liverpool's record summer spending, pushing their total outlay over £300 million in 2025 [2]. Leoni was strongly sought after by Italian giants AC Milan and Inter Milan, with the latter's interest publicly confirmed by vice-president Javier Zanetti. However, Leoni chose Liverpool to test himself in the Premier League [4].
Leoni will wear the number 15 shirt at Liverpool and expressed enthusiasm about improving in both the Premier League and Champions League [1]. He was officially unveiled at Liverpool's AXA Training Centre after passing his medical and agreeing personal terms [1][5]. Leoni is set to be part of Liverpool's squad for the 2025-26 season opener against Bournemouth at Anfield [1][2].
As Liverpool integrates Leoni into their first-team plans, the future of Ibrahima Konaté remains uncertain. Real Madrid have reportedly expressed interest in the centre-back [6]. Liverpool are considering a contingency plan for Konaté's potential departure in 2026, and another new face may soon join Liverpool's squad [6].
Rumours suggest that Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace could also be joining Liverpool before the end of the summer window [7]. If Guehi's arrival materialises, it could provide natural cover or a chance for a first-team spot for Leoni this season.
Liverpool continue to plan for the future, especially with Van Dijk's age. Transfermarkt values Leoni at €18m (£15.5m) [8]. Loaning Leoni back to Italy could be a strategic move to ensure his development, but no specific details about this possibility have been provided.
This summer, Liverpool have already signed Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Alexander Isak [9]. No specific details about Isak's potential move to Liverpool have been provided.
In summary, Liverpool's pursuit of Giovanni Leoni is complete, with the young Italian defender now integrated into their first-team plans following a significant transfer investment. The future of Ibrahima Konaté remains uncertain, with Real Madrid reportedly interested, and Liverpool are considering a contingency plan for his potential departure in 2026. Another new face may soon join Liverpool's squad, with rumours suggesting Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace could be the next addition.
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