Liverpool ready to secure €35m for Parma’s Giovanni Leoni at Arne Slot’s request

Young defender to remain in Italy until 2026 before joining Anfield squad

Liverpool is on the verge of completing the signing of Giovanni Leoni from Parma in a deal worth around €35 million, following a direct request from new head coach Arne Slot. The agreement, confirmed by journalist Nicolò Schira, will see the 18-year-old defender join the Reds on a permanent contract but remain with Parma until June 2026.

According to the report, the financial package includes €31 million in fixed payments and a further €4 million in performance-related bonuses. Negotiations between Liverpool and Leoni’s representatives have been ongoing for weeks, with the final agreement reached in recent days.

The move is part of Liverpool’s broader strategy to reinforce its squad across multiple positions, with the club determined to evolve into a title-contending powerhouse this season. While the Reds are also pursuing a new centre forward, Slot has made defensive reinforcements his top priority for the August transfer window.

Leoni’s deal follows a structure similar to the transfer of goalkeeper Giorgi Mamardashvili, who remained at his former club after signing for a new team. The arrangement is designed to allow the Italian prospect continued first-team development before his Premier League arrival.

Meanwhile, Liverpool are exploring additional defensive options for the current campaign. One target is England international Marc Guehi of Crystal Palace, though high financial demands have so far prevented progress in negotiations.

If confirmed in the coming days, Leoni will become one of the most expensive teenage defenders in Europe and a long-term investment in Liverpool’s backline stability.