Liverpool have officially landed one of Europe’s most highly rated young defenders, as the club confirm the signing of 18-year-old Italian centre-back Giovanni Leoni. The fee is understood to be around €35m, with additional clauses and a sell-on percentage included in the agreement with Parma.
Leoni, who has already drawn comparisons to some of Italy’s legendary defenders due to his composure, strength, and tactical awareness, is seen as a huge coup for the Reds. At just 18, he is considered one of the brightest prospects in Serie A, and Liverpool’s scouting department have been tracking his progress closely over the past year.
The teenager will be integrated immediately into Arne Slot’s squad, with Liverpool confident he has the maturity to adapt quickly to the Premier League. His arrival also signals the club’s long-term commitment to refreshing their backline, as Leoni joins a team looking to build a solid defensive foundation for years to come.
For Liverpool supporters, this is more than just a signing — it’s the addition of a future star. The Reds now boast one of Italy’s most exciting prospects, a player who could develop into a cornerstone of their defense for the next decade.