Liverpool are on the verge of securing the services of 18-year-old center-back Giovanni Leoni from Parma, according to manager Arne Slot.
The promising defender, who has been on Slot’s radar for some time, is expected to join the Premier League title holders in a transfer valued at around £26m.
An Italy Under-19 international, Leoni began his professional journey with Padova, had a brief spell at Sampdoria, and moved to Parma last year. He made 17 appearances in Serie A during his debut season, helping Parma finish five points clear of the drop zone in 16th place.
Slot confirmed that an agreement between the two clubs is in place but stressed the move is not yet finalized. “The moment he signs, I can share more details,” he said.
Liverpool remain interested in Guehi
Slot declined to discuss speculation surrounding Crystal Palace’s captain, Marc Guehi. “He’s not our player. He led the team we lost to last Sunday. If you want to ask about him, you should go to Palace and Oliver Glasner,” the manager noted.
Palace reportedly values Guehi at £40m, but Liverpool is reluctant to meet that figure. With just a year remaining on his contract, Palace chairman Steve Parish has acknowledged that a transfer could happen to prevent the England defender from leaving for free next year.
Any potential move would also depend on assurances regarding Guehi’s role at Anfield, particularly in a year when players are vying for World Cup places.
Summer transfer activity at Anfield
Liverpool’s spending this transfer window has already reached approximately £270m, offset by about £170m earned from outgoing deals.
The Merseyside club recently had an £110m offer for Newcastle striker Alexander Isak turned down. Sources close to the player suggest he remains intent on moving to the reigning champions.
If Liverpool manage to sign Leoni, Guehi, and Isak, their total outlay this summer would surpass £400m.
The champions open their 2025-26 Premier League season on Friday night, hosting Bournemouth in the competition’s opening fixture at Anfield.
