Liverpool appear to be in the final stages of securing a deal for Parma\u2019s highly rated centre-back, Giovanni Leoni \u2014 and the Serie A club may now be willing to part with the teenager for around \u20ac35 million.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
According to Italian journalist Nicolo Ceccarini, the Reds have not yet submitted a formal bid but have already made direct contact to assess the player\u2019s availability. Those conversations have reportedly given Liverpool growing confidence that a deal can be completed. Inter Milan, once seen as a serious contender for the 18-year-old, are now understood to be out of the running.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
While previous speculation suggested Parma might accept \u20ac30 million plus add-ons, Ceccarini claims the Italian side\u2019s ideal package is closer to \u20ac35 million. That figure could be enough to secure the youngster\u2019s move to Anfield. The question now is how far Liverpool will be willing to go to meet that valuation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
This move comes at a critical time for the Reds. The \u00a335 million sale of Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen has left Arne Slot with a thin pool of options in central defence. Joe Gomez\u2019s injury has only heightened the urgency, leaving Virgil van Dijk and Ibrahima Konate as the only fully fit senior centre-backs.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Both Slot and Van Dijk have publicly acknowledged the need to reinforce the backline, particularly after Liverpool\u2019s defeat to Crystal Palace in the Community Shield. Despite a summer spending spree exceeding \u00a3300 million \u2014 bringing in names like Hugo Ekitike, Florian Wirtz, Milos Kerkez, Jeremie Frimpong, Armin Pesci and Freddie Woodman \u2014 defence remains a priority.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Leoni\u2019s reputation has grown rapidly after his breakthrough season with Parma, where he made 17 Serie A appearances and scored once. Despite his limited senior experience, he has already represented Italy at under-19 level and earned praise from some of the biggest names in Italian football.<\/p>\n\n\n\n