Deal Agreed Between Liverpool and Parma

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed his trademark “Here We Go” for Giovanni Leoni to Liverpool, with the Reds agreeing a £26 million plus add-ons deal with Parma. The 18-year-old Italian centre-back will travel to Merseyside today to complete his medical, with the signing expected to be finalised within hours.

Liverpool have been clear from the outset that Leoni will join Arne Slot’s squad immediately, ruling out any possibility of a loan back to Italy.

Liverpool’s Summer Spending Continues to Rise

The signing takes Liverpool’s summer spending to £321.5 million (including add-ons), although the club has recouped approximately £170 million from player sales. This summer window marks one of the most ambitious and expensive squad overhauls in Liverpool’s history.

Rapid Rise Through Italian Football

Giovanni Leoni enjoyed a breakthrough season in Serie A, making 17 appearances for Parma during his debut year in Italy’s top division. His career path has been remarkably quick: in February 2024, he joined Sampdoria on loan from Padova, making 12 appearances and scoring once in Serie B. Sampdoria signed him permanently before Parma swooped in later that year in a deal worth €4.8 million plus bonuses.

Leoni’s Serie A debut came on 9 November 2024, and he netted his first top-flight goal on 9 February 2025. Under coach Christian Chivu, the teenager became a key figure in Parma’s backline despite his age.

Physical Presence and Ball Playing Ability

Standing at 1.95m (6ft 5in), Leoni brings a commanding aerial presence, winning 80% of his aerial duels last season. His technical quality is equally impressive, boasting 88% pass accuracy and the ability to operate both centrally and as a right-sided centre-back.

Liverpool’s move for Leoni underlines their commitment to strengthening defensive depth and investing in long-term talent.