(Sports Correspondent: Imran Sohail)
Liverpool Agree £26m Deal for Parma Defender Giovanni Leoni as Arne Slot Strengthens Squad
Liverpool manager Arne Slot has confirmed that the club has reached an agreement with Parma to sign 18-year-old centre-back Giovanni Leoni. The highly rated Italian defender, who has made just 17 Serie A appearances, is expected to cost around £26 million.
The deal comes after a busy summer for the Premier League champions, who have already spent £260 million on signings including Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Jeremie Frimpong, and Milos Kerkez. Slot is aiming to reinforce his squad as Liverpool look to defend their record-equalling 20th English league title.
The need for a new central defender increased following Jarell Quansah’s move to Bayer Leverkusen. Joe Gomez has been sidelined for much of pre-season with injury, and Ibrahima Konate has just one year left on his contract.
“The clubs have agreed a deal, but he hasn’t signed yet. Once he signs, I can share more,” Slot said in his pre-match press conference ahead of Friday’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth.
Reports suggest Liverpool could still pursue another centre-back before the transfer window closes, with Crystal Palace captain Marc Guehi among those linked.
Defending the title will be a major challenge for Slot’s side, who have not won back-to-back league crowns since 1984. Several key players have left this summer, including Trent Alexander-Arnold, Luis Diaz, Darwin Nunez, and Caoimhin Kelleher.
Speaking about the challenge ahead, Slot said:
“It’s so difficult because there are many teams capable of winning the league. We’ve lost several players who played a lot of minutes last season, and brought in new ones, so there’s always an adaptation period.”
The headline signing of the summer remains Florian Wirtz, whose transfer from Bayer Leverkusen could rise to a British record £116 million. Slot believes the German international will handle the pressure well.
“He’s creative, mentally strong, and doesn’t get distracted by transfer fees,” Slot added. “Good players adapt to good teams, and he’s already adjusting to the league better than expected.”
Liverpool fans will be eager to see Leoni in action as the club continues its preparations for a highly competitive Premier League campaign.
