Liverpool Transfer Saga Intensifies: Parma Rejects €35m Offer for Giovanni Leoni
Liverpool’s pursuit of one of Italy’s brightest young defensive talents, Giovanni Leoni, has reached a tense early stage after Parma firmly rejected an opening bid of €35 million (£30.3m) from the Anfield side. According to respected Italian outlet TuttoMercatoWeb, Parma have made it crystal clear that they will not entertain any sale unless Liverpool meet their €40 million (£34.8m) valuation in full.
Who is Giovanni Leoni?
Leoni, just 20 years old, has quickly become one of the most talked-about defenders in Serie A. Standing at 6’3” (1.91m), he blends physical dominance with exceptional ball-playing ability, allowing him to start attacks from deep while also excelling in one-on-one defensive duels. His calmness under pressure, aerial strength, and tactical intelligence have drawn comparisons to legendary Italian centre-backs like Alessandro Nesta and Giorgio Chiellini.
Last season, he made over 30 first-team appearances for Parma, becoming a cornerstone in their defensive setup. His performances not only helped Parma maintain one of the stingiest defences in the league but also earned him call-ups to Italy’s U21 national side — with many predicting a senior squad debut within the next year.
Why Liverpool Want Him Now
Liverpool’s defensive situation is entering a critical phase. Virgil van Dijk, now 33, remains a world-class leader, but the club’s recruitment team is well aware of the need for long-term succession planning. Joel Matip has departed, while Ibrahima Konaté has faced recurring injury setbacks. Even with youngsters like Jarell Quansah breaking through, manager Arne Slot and sporting director Richard Hughes want another high-ceiling centre-back to secure the club’s defensive future.
Leoni fits perfectly into Liverpool’s strategy of targeting young, technically skilled, and tactically flexible players who can adapt to the Premier League’s high-intensity demands. His ability to play in both a two-man and three-man defensive line makes him an attractive option, particularly for Slot, whose system values ball progression from the back.
Parma’s Stance & Negotiation Dynamics
Parma’s refusal to budge on price is rooted in both sporting and financial logic. The club is fresh from promotion and is looking to establish itself in Serie A rather than dismantle its core squad. Selling Leoni this summer would be a massive blow unless the transfer fee reflects what they see as his true market value — especially in a market where top young defenders often command €50m+ price tags.
The club’s sporting director has privately indicated that they would rather keep Leoni for another season to further increase his value, knowing that interest from Europe’s elite is only going to grow. By holding out for €40m, Parma are also testing Liverpool’s willingness to push their budget for a defensive target.
Transfer Market Implications
If Liverpool return with an improved offer, they may have to structure the deal creatively — possibly with performance-related bonuses, sell-on clauses, or staggered payments to bring Parma to the table. However, hesitation could open the door for other suitors, with Juventus, Inter Milan, and Borussia Dortmund reportedly monitoring the situation.
Given the current market, where top defensive talents are scarce, Liverpool may decide that paying the full €40m is worth securing Leoni now rather than risking a more expensive bidding war next summer.
Bottom line: Parma’s message is loud and clear — €40m or no deal. The decision now rests with Liverpool’s recruitment team: make the move now and lock in one of Europe’s most promising defenders, or gamble on waiting and risk losing him to a rival.
