Liverpool complete £26m signing of Italian defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma. The 18-year-old centre-back signs long-term deal and takes squad No.15.
Liverpool Sign Giovanni Leoni from Parma
Liverpool have officially confirmed the signing of Italian defender Giovanni Leoni from Parma in a deal worth around £26 million plus add-ons. The 18-year-old centre-back has penned a six-year contract until 2031, subject to international clearance and a work permit.
The move makes Leoni the latest addition in what has been a record-breaking summer window for the Premier League champions, with total spending now surpassing £300m.
Who is Giovanni Leoni?
Born in Rome, Leoni is regarded as one of Italy’s most promising defensive talents. Standing at 6ft 4in, he made his professional debut for Padova at just 16 before a loan spell at Sampdoria in Serie B. Parma secured his signature in 2024, where he quickly impressed in Serie A, making 17 appearances and scoring once in his debut season.
His performances drew attention from several top clubs, including Inter Milan, but Liverpool won the race to secure his services.
Why Liverpool Wanted Him
Leoni has been widely compared to Italian greats of the past, with some dubbing him the “new Fabio Cannavaro.” According to Transfermarkt’s Serie A expert Aniello Luciano, he’s seen as a future Italy international and praised for his anticipation, physicality, and dominance in duels.
Reds manager Arne Slot sees him as both a player for the present and a cornerstone for the future. At Anfield, he is expected to provide competition for Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez in central defence.
Leoni’s First Words as a Red
Speaking to Liverpool’s club media, Leoni could not hide his excitement:
I’m very happy to be here. It’s a really great sensation and I’m honoured. When I saw Liverpool were interested, I said: ‘Wow, this is crazy.’ It’s a dream come true.
The teenager, who has represented Italy at U19 level, will wear the No.15 shirt at Anfield.
He also confirmed he will be in attendance at Anfield for Liverpool’s Premier League opener against Bournemouth, calling it the start of “a new journey.”
The Bigger Picture
Leoni joins other high-profile summer arrivals including Florian Wirtz, Hugo Ekitike, Milos Kerkez, and Jeremie Frimpong, as Liverpool continue their push to refresh the squad with youthful talent.
His signing underlines Liverpool’s long-term planning — building a side capable of competing in the Premier League and Champions League for years to come.