Liverpool has strengthened their defense by signing center back Giovanni Leoni from Serie A side Parma in a £26 million deal. The 6-foot-4 Italy youth international made his breakthrough at Parma under manager Cristian Chivu during the second half of last season and impressed with his physical attributes, defensive skills, and ability to handle strong strikers.
Leoni’s impressive form in Serie A caught the attention of Liverpool, who have prioritized signing a promising young central defender. He is now set to join Virgil van Dijk, Ibrahima Konaté, and Joe Gomez in manager Arne Slot’s first-team center back options. Despite being 18 years old, Leoni has already demonstrated his potential with his sheer size, strength, and aggression on the pitch.
However, Liverpool will need to work on certain aspects of Leoni’s game, particularly his pass selection and ability to carry the ball forward. Coach Arne Slot will aim to develop these skills further, playing with better players and in a more expansive system. With time and coaching, Leoni is expected to become a world-class center back, and Liverpool’s investment of £26 million appears wise given his potential.
Leoni’s arrival marks an exciting new chapter for Liverpool’s defense, and fans are eager to see how he will fit into the team’s plans. Despite some concerns over his lack of top-end speed and mobility, Leoni’s physical attributes and defensive skills make him a promising addition to the squad.
Source: https://www.espn.com/soccer/story/_/id/45974596/liverpool-giovanni-leoni-parma-transfer-scouting-report-analysis-stats