Liverpool FC has signed 18-year-old defender Giovanni Leoni from Italian side Parma for a fee of £26m plus add-ons. The Italy Under-19s centre-back will sign a contract until 2031.
Leoni began his career at Padova and had a short spell at Sampdoria before joining Parma last summer. He played 17 games in Serie A last season, attracting interest from both Milan clubs, but has opted for a move abroad.
“I didn’t say no to this club,” Leoni told the club website about Liverpool’s offer. “Because it’s one of the best clubs in the world.”
Leoni will provide extra cover in central defence, which has been an area of concern for the Reds since selling Jarell Quansah to Bayer Leverkusen. With captain Virgil van Dijk now 34, the team needs younger players like Leoni to take on a bigger role.
At 6ft 5in, Leoni is exceptional in the air and composed in possession. Although he has limited experience with just 14 top-flight starts under his belt, his stats are impressive. The teenager will likely need to be patient for his chances but will have the opportunity to develop his game with Liverpool FC and learn from Van Dijk.
Leoni’s transfer is subject to receiving international clearance and a work permit.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/sport/football/articles/c9d09y292jeo