Liverpool Are Showing Interest In This Serie A Defender: One For The Future?
Leoni's Impressive Rise In Italian Football
Leoni has caught the eye with his performances at the heart of Parma's backline in the previous campaign. The 18-year-old has already made 17 senior appearances for the Italian outfit last season, finding the back of the net once on all fronts.
The Roma-born talent gave a good account of himself on the defensive third of the pitch as he made 14 tackles, 20 blocks and 15 interceptions in Serie A. He was even tidy when distributing the ball from the back after making 87.7% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via fbref.com).
His current contract at the Italian club will run out in the summer of 2029, which could make it difficult for the Reds to snap him up on the cheap this off-season.
UDINE, ITALY – MARCH 01: Giovanni Leoni of Parma reacts at the end of the Serie A match between Udinese and Parma at Stadio Friuli on March 01, 2025 in Udine, Italy. (Photo by)
Liverpool Are Showing Interest In Leoni: Is He A Prospect For The Future?
Leoni is a tough-tackling defender who can time his challenges well to earn possession back for his team inside his half. He usually clears his lines when required and can play his way out from the back.
Standing at 1.96m, the Italian talent can use his towering presence to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. Leoni is primarily a central defender but can also fill in as a right-back if asked to do so by his manager. However, he is still quite raw and would need time to prove his worth in the Premier League if the Reds manage to bring him on board this summer.
Leoni would add more bite and steel to Liverpool boss Arne Slot's defence. He has what it takes to fight for a regular first-team spot at the Merseyside club in the coming seasons.
At 18, Leoni has the potential to be a future star in English football. He is undoubtedly a prospect to watch out for in the long run. Therefore, the Reds would be wise to go all out to secure Leoni's services before the end of this summer transfer window.
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