Liverpool pursue centre-back Giovanni Leoni for £90m transfer

Liverpool are advancing plans to reinforce their defensive ranks by targeting Parma centre-back Giovanni Leoni. Sporting director Richard Hughes initiated last year’s defensive restructuring with the £26 million acquisition of Giovanni Leoni from Parma. The club’s summer strategy focuses on bolstering the backline, with Giovanni Leoni identified as a key target. His potential arrival would mark another high-value defensive signing under Hughes’ leadership. Giovanni Leoni’s current club, Parma, has not yet commented publicly on any potential transfer discussions. The Italian defender has been a consistent performer in Serie B, drawing interest from multiple Premier League clubs. Sources close to the negotiation suggest Giovanni Leoni is open to a move to Liverpool, aligning with the club’s defensive ambitions. The proposed transfer fee is reported to be in the region of £90 million. Liverpool’s defensive overhaul began last summer with the £26 million capture of Giovanni Leoni. The club has since prioritized centre-back reinforcements to address long-term squad needs. Giovanni Leoni has made 42 appearances for Parma across all competitions this season. His performances have solidified his reputation as one of Serie B’s most reliable defenders. The potential deal remains in preliminary stages, with no formal agreement reached between Liverpool and Parma. Negotiations are expected to intensify over the coming weeks. If completed, the transfer would represent Liverpool’s second major defensive signing in under a year. The club continues to explore options to strengthen its backline ahead of the new season. Liverpool’s pursuit of Giovanni Leoni underscores their commitment to defensive stability. Further updates are anticipated as negotiations progress.